Meaning & Definition of word "Doorknob"

Doorknob

/ˈdʊərˌnɒb/

1. A rounded handle used to open or close a door.
- Example: She turned the doorknob and stepped into the room.
2. The part of a door that is turned to operate the latch or lock.
- Example: The doorknob was sticky, making it difficult to open the door.
3. An object in the shape of a knob that is intended to be grasped and turned.
- Example: He installed a new brass doorknob to match the decor.
4. A mechanism for controlling access through a door.
- Example: After trying several times, she finally got the doorknob to turn smoothly.

The term doorknob comes from the combination of 'door' and 'knob', where 'knob' may refer to a rounded protuberance.

turn the doorknob:

To open or close a door using the doorknob.

doorknob handle:

Referring to the part of the doorknob one holds to operate it.

handle:

A part of a door mechanism used for opening or closing.

hinge:

A joint that allows the door to pivot.

Meaning: Used to describe someone or something that is never used or ignored.

Example Sentence: He's like a doorknob, just hanging around without purpose.