Knocking

/ˈnɒk.ɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a sound made by striking a surface.
The knocking continued for several minutes before it stopped.
a typical sound made by knocking on a door.
There was a soft knocking coming from the other side of the wall.
verb
the act of striking something to make a noise, especially at a door.
She heard a knocking at the door and rushed to answer it.
to hit something with a forceful contact.
He was knocking on the table to get everyone's attention.

Etymology

Middle English 'knokking', from the verb 'knocken', which is of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

knocking on heaven's door
To be close to death or to be in a desperate situation.
knock someone's socks off
To amaze or impress someone greatly.
a knock at the door
An unexpected visitor or situation.

Related Words

knock
The action of hitting a surface to make a sound.
knocker
A device used for knocking on a door.
knockdown
A blow that causes someone to fall.

Slang Meanings

To have a good time or party.
We went to a friend's house and just started knocking.
To engage in physical fighting.
Those guys were out back knocking after the game.