What does knocking mean?
“Knocking” most commonly describes the action of striking a door, wall, or other surface to make a repeated sound, as in “someone was knocking at the door.” The sound itself may also be called a “knocking,” while the continuous present participle can indicate that the action is in progress: “We heard knocking below.” The word has a familiar informal meaning when applied to criticism, as in “knocking a policy,” meaning to criticize it forcefully or persistently. This use often implies that the criticism is excessive, unfair, or designed to undermine the subject. In literary descriptions, a “knocking sound” may also suggest something repeatedly striking or being struck. Though simple and conversational, “knocking” can evoke persistent noise, insistent attention, or relentless criticism, depending on context.
To strike a surface with a knuckle, finger, or other hard object, usually making a repeated sound.
"He knocked twice on the glass door."
The present participle “knocking” can describe an action in progress or a sound produced by repeated striking.
The act or sound of striking a surface repeatedly; informally, persistent or severe criticism.
"There was a sudden knocking at the back entrance."
The critical sense is informal and often carries the connotation of excessive or unfair criticism.
The plural is uncommon but standard when referring to separate instances of knocking or repeated acts of criticism.
"The loud knockings in the hallway continued throughout the night."
Knocking on wood is one of the English language’s most familiar rituals for warding off bad luck.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does knocking come from?
The word descends from Middle English “knocken,” which continued the form and meaning of Old English “cnocian,” meaning to strike or knock. Its development reflects the long-established Germanic vocabulary of making a sharp sound by striking a surface. The modern noun and critical senses developed from the basic action and sound associated with this older verb.
How knocking is actually used
In its critical sense, “knocking” is informal and may sound forceful or dismissive. As a present participle, it can describe either the action itself or a sound associated with repeated striking.