doorknob

[dawr-nob, dohr-]

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of doorknob¹

First recorded in 1840–50; door + knob

Example Sentences

“I saw a doorknob I liked somewhere, and when I went back, it was gone. I thought, ‘I wish I had a picture of that, just so I could have appreciated it more,’” Msrlyan explained.

From Los Angeles Times

At first, he thought a wild animal had made its way inside and damaged things, but a broken glass panel next to the doorknob indicated a break-in.

From Los Angeles Times

Are these monsters pure animal or can they work a doorknob?

From Los Angeles Times

"I turn my hearing aids off, deaf as a doorknob, tune everything out, it's really joyful."

From BBC

Traces of the chemical weapon were later discovered on the doorknob of Mr Skripal's home, where police believe it had been planted in a "targeted" attack.

From BBC

Related Words

• latch 
• lever 

When To Use

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.