Knock – Meaning, Definition, Synonyms, and Antonyms
Knock is a verb in English grammar. It most commonly means to hit a surface (often a door or wall) to make a sound, get attention, or announce yourself.
Meaning:
The verb “knock” generally refers to striking a surface, often a door, with your hand or an object to make a sound. It can also mean to hit or collide with something forcefully, which may result in movement or damage. If you mean a physical impact, you may also relate it to the idea of collision.
Definition:
To strike a surface, especially a door or wall, with a quick, sharp motion to get attention, announce one’s presence, or make a sound; also, to hit or collide with something in a forceful way.
Example Sentences:
- He knocked on the door to see if anyone was home.
- She knocked loudly on the table to get everyone’s attention during the meeting.
- The wind knocked the tree branches against the window.
- Try not to knock your coffee cup while you’re walking in the kitchen.
- The ball knocked into the chair and nearly tipped it over.
Knock Synonyms:
- Nail (informal: to hit or secure something firmly, depending on context)
- Tap (a light, brief touch or strike)
- Strike (hit with force or impact)
- Bang (a loud, sudden sound from hitting)
- Hit (make contact with force)
- Rattle (make a rough, repeated sound after contact)
- Collision (when the meaning is about impact with another object)
- Nock (not a direct synonym, but commonly confused spelling/related sound in searches)
Knock Antonyms:
- Silence
- Rest
- Avoid
- Miss
- Ignore
- Leave
- Neglect
- Withdraw
- Pass by
- Remain still
Explore more positive words that start with K for vocabulary practice and writing variety.
Quick FAQs
- Is “knock” a regular verb? Yes. Common forms are: knock, knocked, knocked.
- What’s the difference between “knock” and “tap”? A tap is usually lighter and shorter, while a knock can be stronger or more deliberate.
- Can “knock” mean to hit in a fight or accident? Yes. In that sense, it overlaps with ideas like collision.
- How do I use “knock” for polite entry? You can say: “Knock knock” or “I knocked on the door, but there was no answer.”
Similar Words
- If you’re looking for another action verb, compare with kneel.
- If you’re working with a different kind of contact or process, you can also review knit.
- For words that relate to sounds made during interaction, check nail and the concept of impact in collision.
- For a place-word that often appears in usage examples, see kitchen.






