knuckle duster
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A small, handheld weapon made of metal, designed to be worn over the knuckles on the back of the hand. It is used to increase the force of a punch and to protect the user's hand during an impact.
Usage
The term "knuckle duster" refers specifically to the weapon itself. It is a compound noun, but it functions as a single lexical unit to name this object. It is typically used in contexts discussing weapons, crime, or historical combat gear.
Examples
- The police found a knuckle duster in the suspect's pocket.
- In some historical periods, soldiers carried knuckle dusters for close-quarters combat.
- Carrying a knuckle duster is illegal in many jurisdictions.
Advanced Usage
- "To be armed with a knuckle duster": This phrase describes a person who has this weapon in their possession, typically with intent to use it.
- The assailant was armed with a knuckle duster.
Variants and Related Words
- Brass knuckles (n): This is the most common synonym for "knuckle duster," especially in American English.
- Knucks (n, slang): An informal, shortened form of "knuckle dusters" or "brass knuckles."
Synonyms
- Brass knuckles
- Knuckles (in this specific weapon context)
Notes on Meaning
"Knuckle duster" has only one primary meaning as defined above. It should not be confused with general hand protection used in sports, which are called "gloves" or "wraps." Its use is almost exclusively associated with weaponry and illicit activity.
Noun
- a small metal weapon; worn over the knuckles on the back of the hand