knocker

American  

[nok-er] / ˈnɒk ər /

noun

1. a person or thing that knocks.

2. a hinged knob, bar, etc., on a door, for use in knocking.

3. Informal. a persistent and carping critic; faultfinder.

4. Slang: Vulgar. a female breast.

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idioms

1. on the knocker, canvassing or selling door-to-door.

knocker British  

/ ˈnɒkə /

noun

1. an object, usually ornamental and made of metal, attached to a door by a hinge and used for knocking

2. informal a person who finds fault or disparages

3. slang (usually plural) a female breast

4. a person or thing that knocks

5. informal promptly; at once

   you pay on the knocker here

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Etymology

Origin of knocker

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; knock, -er ¹

Example Sentences

As her fingers brush against the brass knocker, a rattling sound comes from the other side of the door, and we all freeze.

From Literature

As they approached, Danny could see the knocker was shaped like a gargoyle head.

From Literature

A large brass knocker hung in the center of the door.

From Literature

There were five bases, home plate was dubbed the “knocker’s stone” and runners could be put out by hitting them with a thrown ball.

From The Wall Street Journal

One wall held doors, windows, knockers, and knobs that promised views into other places and times.

From Literature