knocker

[ nok-er ]

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.

knocker

/ 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. on the knocker informal.
   on the knocker promptly; at once

   you pay on the knocker here

Word History and Origins

Origin of knocker¹

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

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

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

Example Sentences

Add an address plaque above your door or install a stylish door knocker.

From Washington Blade

The knocker appeared to hear the response, and to assert that it was quite impossible he could wait so long.

From Project Gutenberg

Aristide, however, went up to the door; as there was neither knocker nor bell, he rapped with his knuckles.

From Project Gutenberg

At the bottom of Knocker's Bay is a shoal mangrove opening, of no importance.

From Project Gutenberg

When I am dead the knocker will pass into other hands equally persistent with those of the mighty men who handed it to me.

From Project Gutenberg

This was of oak after a design of his own, and was wide and massive, with hinges of wrought-iron and a dragon's-head knocker.

From Project Gutenberg