knocked; knocking; knocks
Definition of knock
(Entry 1 of 2)
1
: to strike something with a sharp blow
2
: to collide with something
4a
: to make a pounding noise
b
: to have engine knock
5
: to find fault
1a(1)
: to strike sharply
(2)
: to drive, force, or make by or as if by so striking
was knocked out of the campaign
b
: to set forcibly in motion with a blow
2
: to cause to collide
3
: to find fault with
always knocking those in authority
knock cold
knock dead
knock for a loop
knock one's socks off
knock on wood
knock together
: to move strongly especially to admiration or applause
a comedian who really knocks them dead
: to overwhelm or amaze one
a performance that will knock your socks off
—used interjectionally to ward off misfortune
: to make or assemble especially hurriedly or in a makeshift way
knocked together my own bookcase
knock
noun
Definition of knock (Entry 2 of 2)
2a
: a pounding noise
b
: a sharp repetitive metallic noise caused by abnormal ignition in an automobile engine
3
: a harsh and often petty criticism
the knock on him was that he couldn't handle the pressure
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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The first known use of knock was before the 12th century
See more words from the same century