Knee

/niː/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The joint between the thigh and the lower leg in humans and animals, which allows for bending and movement.

She fell and landed hard on her knee, causing a painful bruise.

The corresponding joint in the leg of a vertebrate animal.

The horse stumbled, and the rider had to quickly adjust their knee position to maintain balance.

The part of a garment (such as pants) that covers the knee.

He wore shorts that came just above the knee for better comfort on a hot day.

Old English 'cneow', related to similar words in other Germanic languages.

on bended knee

To humbly ask for forgiveness or a favor.

knee-jerk reaction

An automatic, instinctive response.

knee-deep

Very involved or immersed in something.

patellar

Relating to the kneecap.

kneecap

The bony structure covering the knee joint.

kneecapping

Intentionally injuring someone's knee, often used in a criminal context.

To kneecap someone (verb)

They threatened to kneecap him if he didn’t pay up.

Knee-slapper (noun)

That joke was a real knee-slapper.