doorknob

American  

[dawr-nob, dohr-] / ˈdɔrˌnɒb, ˈdoʊr- /

noun

1. the handle or knob by which a door is opened or closed.

---

Usage

What is a doorknob? A doorknob is the knob or handle used to open and close a door. Doorknobs are common on doors, especially the inside doors of a home, such as the doors of different rooms and closets. These tend to be metal and shaped like a, well, knob—a part that sticks out and has a rounded end. Door handles in other shapes might be called doorknobs, but it’s more likely for them to be called door handles or just handles. Another difference is that doorknobs typically turn. Door handles can turn, but they can also be fixed in place, like a vertical or horizontal bar. A doorknob may also have a lock or keyhole to lock the door with. Example: The mansion was so luxurious that even the doorknobs were made of solid gold.

Etymology

Origin of doorknob

First recorded in 1840–50; door + knob

Related Words

• latch
• lever