knuckle under

Definition of knuckle undernext

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of knuckle under Some owners show their mettle for a spell, then find adequate reason to knuckle under; others have no intention of even pretending to do what is hard or what is right. David Remnick, New Yorker, 29 May 2026 Everyone, including the media, knuckles under. Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 24 Feb. 2026 That’s a clear message to others to get in line and knuckle under — or else. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 14 Jan. 2026 How much of this is a bluff designed to get Senate Democrats to knuckle under and vote to reopen the government and how much of this is wishcasting by MAGA? Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 10 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for knuckle under
Verb
  • If neither is an option, choose plants that like moisture and won’t succumb to root rot.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 19 July 2026
  • Someone on the way out steals that mask, leaving Juliette in danger of succumbing to the poison.
    Noel Murray, Vulture, 17 July 2026
Verb
  • Residents who need to surrender pets or bring in stray animals will still be directed there.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 14 July 2026
  • Pfeiffer’s willingness to surrender to the environment set the tone for the entire production.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 July 2026
Verb
  • The policy requires a supervisor to complete an investigation, as well as submit findings and an evaluation of the officer's performance up the chain of command for review.
    Gabe White, Arkansas Online, 21 July 2026
  • Founders can now submit entries for the new season through SonyLIV, with the network inviting applicants who can demonstrate real conviction and a clear understanding of their businesses.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 20 July 2026
Verb
  • Luis de la Fuente’s team have barely allowed a big chance all tournament, conceding just once in seven games.
    Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 18 July 2026
  • Argentina has scored the most goals with 19, while Spain has conceded just once.
    Mark Hodge, NBC news, 17 July 2026
Verb
  • Apple refined haptic feedback until a sheet of glass could convincingly acknowledge a virtual button press, and Volkswagen recently bowed to consumer pressure and announced that physical buttons would return to future models.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 18 July 2026
  • The comic is an outgrowth of Shaboozey’s upcoming album The Outlaw Cherie Lee & Other Western Tales, which bows July 31.
    Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 16 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Knuckle under.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/knuckle%20under. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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