brass knuckles
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A small, handheld weapon designed to be worn over the knuckles on the back of the hand. It is typically made of metal and consists of connected rings or a plate with holes for the fingers, intended to concentrate the force of a punch and increase injury to the target.
Usage
The term "brass knuckles" refers specifically to the weapon itself. It is used as a countable noun, often in the plural form. * Possession or use: Refers to having or employing the weapon. * Description: Used to identify or describe the object.
Examples
- The police found a pair of brass knuckles in the suspect's pocket.
- In many jurisdictions, carrying brass knuckles is illegal.
- The weapon was identified as brass knuckles, not a knife.
Advanced Usage
- "A set of brass knuckles": A common phrasing to specify one unit of the weapon.
- Historical/Material Context: While traditionally made of brass, they can be made from other materials like steel or plastic. The term "brass knuckles" is often used generically regardless of the actual material.
Variants and Related Words
- Knuckle duster (noun): A synonym for brass knuckles, commonly used in British English.
- Knuckles (noun, informal): A shortened, informal form sometimes used in context (e.g., "He was armed with knuckles").
Synonyms
- Knuckle duster
- Knuckles (informal)
Notes on Meaning
The word refers solely to the weapon. It does not describe a type of punch, a fighting style, or a part of the body. Its primary function and defining characteristic is its design as a metal reinforcement worn over the knuckles.
Noun
- a small metal weapon; worn over the knuckles on the back of the hand