Knee (noun) — The part in the middle of your leg that helps you walk, run, or sit. It connects your thigh to your shin and helps you move and stay balanced. Your knee also acts like a hinge, letting your leg bend and straighten easily.
How to Pronounce “Knee”?
Audio (UK):
Audio (US):
Start with n like in now, don’t say the k at the beginning of the word, and make the ee long like in see at the end of it.
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Examples: How to Use “Knee” in a Sentence?
Learn how this word appears in everyday language and how it fits smoothly into different situations.
What Are Synonyms for the Word “Knee”?
Even though there are no direct synonyms for this word, explore various expressions connected to “knee,” including related terms and lexical units with some synonymic similarities.
Related nouns: joint leg thigh shin cartilage
Synonyms (contextual): kneecap patella hinge joint
Common collocations: bend the knee knee check knee high
“Knee” Word Formation and Description in Context
Discover how “knee” appears in collocations, from descriptive phrases and actions to various combinations used in everyday life.
With adjectives: sore knee stiff knee swollen knee bony knee
With verbs: bend the knee kneel on the knee twist the knee flex the knee
With nouns (noun + noun): knee pad knee therapy knee extension knee prosthesis
Idioms and Phrases with “Knee”
What does “knee” mean in figurative contexts? The examples below show how the word appears in language to describe feelings, actions, or something exceptional.
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(One’s) knees are knocking — This describes someone trembling with fear, nervousness, or extreme cold. It paints the image of knees literally shaking together.
Before going on stage for her first big performance, herknees were knocking . -
To fall on knees — This means to kneel suddenly, often as a sign of worship, respect, begging, or despair.
Hefell on his knees and begged for forgiveness. -
The bee’s knees — This idiom means something or someone is excellent, outstanding, or of the highest quality.
That new café in town isthe bee’s knees — the coffee is amazing.
Test Your Knowledge of Knee Meaning — Quiz Time!
These exercises will help you define the knee, which, as a result, provides you with more confidence and understanding of where and how to use this word.
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“Knee” Word in Other Languages
Learn how to spell “knee” and recognize it in different languages around the world to boost your general knowledge.
| Language | Word for “Knee” |
|---|---|
Spanish |
Rodilla |
French |
Genoll |
German |
Knie |
Did You Know It? Fun Facts About “Knee”
Explore the definition of “knee” and uncover interesting information about its structure, function, and remarkable feats that highlight its importance in daily life and physical activity.
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Knees rely on cartilage for smooth movement
The cartilage in the knee prevents the bones from grinding against each other so that movement can take place freely. Healthy cartilage is essential for preventing arthritis and joint stiffness, proving that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. -
Ligaments stabilize the knee under pressure
Four main ligaments support the knee, including the ACL and PCL. They prevent excessive movements of the knees and keep the joint stable even during activities. Injuries in this zone are very common for athletes and they often require surgical procedures. -
Longest football knee balance
In 2023, Alireza Chehreh Nama from Iran balanced a football on his knee for a staggering 10 minutes and 40 seconds. This happens to be an exceptional stability feat for the knee, along with extraordinary concentration and control, as the eyes need to be focused on the ball at all times. -
The kneecap protects and strengthens the leverage
The patella, or kneecap, protects the complex knee joint and enhances the force of the thigh muscles in this way. It makes the power of leg extension stronger and more efficient. Actions such as climbing and kicking would be hardly achievable without the kneecap.
Famous Quotes Featuring “Knee”
Take a look at how the word “knee” appears in notable quotations to convey strength, courage, and the influence of close relationships across different contexts.
Explanation: According to Vince Lombardi, while we might think of greatness as the ability to never fail, the essence of real accomplishment lies in getting up again after having been weighed down by defeat.
— Robin Roberts
Explanation: Robin Roberts explains that courage is what you do when fear or doubt is present, rather than when you’re feeling on top of the world. The imagery of knees trembling reflects that bravery finds its strongest expression when you are most vulnerable; strength is there when you bend but do not break.
— Hilary Mantel
Explanation: Hilary Mantel discusses how her childhood was shaped by the advice of elderly people, which she gleaned while sitting close to them. The phrase “at the knee” emphasizes intimacy, tradition, and intergenerational influence.
