Using British slang phrases as a hidden language in daily talks might need to be clarified. It is dependent on the scenario and someone you are interacting with. This is both engaging and confusing. A term that you may have heard is “knob.” So, what is a knob in British slang means? Knowing what it means when used can be very exciting if you have come across it in a conversation. So we’ll go into a universe of British slang to find the true definition of “knob.”

Uncovering What Is a Knob In British Slang?

The British terms may have more than one meaning according to the context. Knob is a term with multiple meanings and is use in everyday life. While this slang may seem pleasant, there are offensive and funny underlying effects surrounding it. 

Let’s discuss its different meanings here.

• Knob In Terms of Foolish 

A British slang term used to describe someone you find very silly or offensive. It is use for a man. When someone is acting stupidly, he is called a Knob.

• You’ve proven yourself to be a knob by quitting your wealthy career.
• He did something really knob and forgot his key.
• Because you have once more trusted her shows what a knob you are.

• Knob In Terms of Door Handle

In British slang terms, a knob is a circular handle that you use for opening and shutting a door or cabinet.

• Rotate the knob in an anticlockwise direction.
• When he turned the knob, it suddenly fell out of his hand.
• Silently, she opened the door after twisting the knob.

• Knob In Terms of Spherical Object

Knob in British slang also means a cylindrical switch on an item of apparatus or machinery. In the UK, a spherical object that fits on a stick or pillar is referred to as a knob. 

The knob is also used for irregular growth or lump. This is often either on the outer layer of an internal organ or below the skin.

• To adjust the noise level, twist or twiddle this small knob.
• To switch on your washer, twist on the left knob.
• You have full command over your cup of coffee by using just one knob to adjust the ground level.

• Knob In Terms of A Small Quantity of Something

In other meanings and contexts, knob in British slang refers to a small quantity of something solid. In most cases, it is usually used for butter. 

• Add a knob of buttery to the pot.
• Place a knob of butter on top of the boiling fries.
• In brunch, she regularly tops her slices of bread with a knob of butter.

Origin History Of British Slang Knob

It is derived from the word “cnop,” which refers to a little rounded handle and was derived from Old English. This first appeared in usage between 1150 and 1500 in the middle British era. 

The poet and ruler Geoffrey Chaucer wrote in 1405. That is the time when the Oxford English Dictionary first came across the word knob.

 Knob comes from different places. Its meaning evolved as the years passed. This has been broadened now and used for its informal meanings.

Final Discussion

So, we hope your understanding regarding “what is a knob in British slang” is clear now. Next time, you will be confident enough whether you dialogue with a British or watch a comedy movie. You can easily explore more of the British slang if you use it wisely and correctly according to the context. This slang will help you a lot in understanding a variety of British lingos. So, feel free to comment if you have any questions.