granny knot

American  

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.

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granny knot British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of granny knot

First recorded in 1850–55; so called in contempt

Example Sentences

If the knot tends to lie vertically along the shoe, it's a weaker granny knot, whereas if the knot is horizontal, it's the stronger square knot.

From Salon

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

From Literature

The scientists tested two basic versions of the standard knot and bow: the square knot and the weaker granny knot.

From 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.

From Nature

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

From Science Magazine