knuckle-duster

[nuhk-uhl-duhs-ter]

noun

1. brass knuckles.

knuckle-duster

noun

1. (often plural) a metal bar fitted over the knuckles, often with holes for the fingers, for inflicting injury by a blow with the fist

Word History and Origins

Origin of knuckle-duster¹

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60