What does knob mean?
Knob most commonly refers to a rounded projecting part of an object, especially the handle used to open a door or the control used to adjust a radio, appliance, or other device. It can also describe a rounded lump, such as a knob of butter, and appears in the informal expression “on the knob,” meaning exactly or precisely. In British English, the word has additional crude and insulting uses: as a noun, it can refer to the penis or, more mildly in some contexts, to a foolish person; as a verb, it can mean to have sexual intercourse with someone, particularly without consent. These slang senses are not part of formal vocabulary and can be vulgar or offensive. Although the ordinary meaning is straightforward and useful, the word's range—from familiar household hardware to British irreverence—makes it unusually memorable.
A small rounded projection, especially a handle or control on a door or appliance; more broadly, a rounded lump or projection. In British informal usage, it can also refer to the penis or a foolish person.
"The door knob was cold under his hand."
The senses meaning the penis or a foolish person are chiefly British, informal, and sometimes vulgar or insulting.
Chiefly British informal slang, to have sexual intercourse with someone, especially without their consent.
"The threatening message implied that he would knob her if she refused."
This use is vulgar and, in the context of coercion or lack of consent, describes sexual assault.
The standard plural is knobs.
"The knobs on the old radio were difficult to turn."
From a door handle to British informal slang, “knob” has travelled from household hardware into some of the language's most irreverent corners.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does knob come from?
The English noun developed through Middle English knappe, from an Old English form cnapp meaning a knob or lump. It belongs to a Germanic family that includes German Knopf and Dutch knop, both associated with rounded projections, buttons, or knobs. The word's later slang senses, especially the British informal reference to the penis and the related verb, developed from its broader older associations with rounded or projecting parts.
Related word forms
How knob is actually used
The ordinary noun is neutral and common in both British and American English. The senses referring to the penis, a foolish person, and the verb meaning sexual intercourse are chiefly British informal usage; they may be vulgar, insulting, or offensive depending on context.
Easily confused with knob
A knob is a rounded projection or control, whereas a knot is a loop or fastening made by tying cord or rope.
Knob is the standard modern spelling; knop is an archaic or regional variant.