What does nock mean?
Nock is a technical verb associated with archery. To nock an arrow means to place the arrow on the bowstring, readying the bow for a shot. The word can also refer to fitting the bowstring into the bow's nock, the small notch or groove designed to hold the string. Its pronunciation is generally the same as “notch,” with a final /k/ sound, and it is related etymologically to that word. Although the noun nock is relatively uncommon outside descriptions of bows, the verb is familiar to readers of archery manuals, historical writing, and sporting accounts. In ordinary conversation, people are more likely to say that they have “put an arrow on the string” or “stringed the bow.” Nock is therefore worth knowing as a precise piece of archery vocabulary rather than a general-purpose synonym for preparing or positioning something.
To place an arrow on a bowstring in preparation for shooting, or to fit a string into the notch of a bow.
"The archer nocked the arrow and drew the string."
Chiefly an archery term; technical and relatively formal.
A notch or groove in a bow, especially the indentation that receives and holds the bowstring.
"The string rested in the nock of the bow."
Usually used in specialized descriptions of bows, arrows, or archery equipment.
The plural is used when referring to multiple notches on bows or similar equipment; in modern general usage, the noun is uncommon and often appears in technical descriptions.
"The bowmaker carved small nocks into each end of the bow."
A nock is the tiny notch where a bowstring rests, and to nock an arrow is to place it there before shooting.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nock come from?
Nock derives from Old English noc, meaning a notch or indentation. In the development of English, the word came to denote the notch of a bow and then the related action of placing an arrow on the string. It is closely related to notch, which preserves the same older Germanic root in a more general sense.
Related word forms
How nock is actually used
Chiefly used in archery and in specialized descriptions of bows and arrows. It is formal or technical rather than part of everyday general vocabulary.
Easily confused with nock
A nock is a notch or the act of fitting an arrow to a bow, whereas a knock is a tap or blow made against a surface.