knock-knock

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   A verbal emulation of a knocking sound.

2. 2

   A phrase used in lieu of knocking on a door.

3. 3

   Used to introduce a knock-knock joke.

   • Knock-knock. / Who's there? / Wendy. / Wendy who? / Wendy you want to open the door?
4. ›+ 3 more definitionsshow fewer

   1. 4

      To make such a sound, as by knocking on (something).

      • Formally, the poll tax will die today, but it will carry on knock-knocking from the grave.
      • The reporter also knock-knocked his house.
      • A golden-backed woodpecker knock-knocked on a tree while whistling ducks flew overhead; there were few other people.
   2. 5

      Such a sound.

      • The jewelry thing is just the first time you’ve noticed the knock-knock of the bigger issues at your door.
   3. 6

      Synonym of knock-knock joke.

      • In the spirit of Tom Swifties and knock-knocks, John W. Little 2d has invented a word game called the Bridge of Sys.
      • (see title)
      • Then here's a collection to last you a lifetime, or until you've driven your parents and friends crazy, whichever comes first. This is the biggest knock-knock treasury you'll ever find

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