granny knot

Or granny's knot

noun

1. an incorrect version of a square knot in which the bights cross each other in the wrong direction next to the end, so as to produce a knot that is insecure.

granny knot

noun

1. a reef knot with the ends crossed the wrong way, making it liable to slip or jam

Word History and Origins

Origin of granny knot¹

First recorded in 1850–55; so called in contempt

Example Sentences

For example, in a standard granny knot, rope strands slide along each other in opposite directions as the knot is tightened, generating friction that increases the knot's strength.

Read more on Salon

And that's why I found myself fumbling one simple granny knot.

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Although he admitted to still using the granny knot himself through habit.

Read more on The Guardian

They could tie one shoe with a granny knot and the other with a sturdier reef or square knot and see how their laces fare.

Read more on Nature

Here’s one thing we do know about shoelaces: The “square knot” holds up better than the “granny knot.”

Read more on Science Magazine