knuckle-duster

[ nuhk-uhl-duhs-ter ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

knuckle-duster

often plural a metal bar fitted over the knuckles, often with holes for the fingers, for inflicting injury by a blow with the fist

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60

We called him the "distinguished knuckle-duster;" and he called himself, the "famous artilleryman."

I have used a hand-bayonet which sticks out from the fist like a knuckle-duster and is about six inches long.

There were papers in his coat, also a knuckle-duster, a big clasp-knife, and an automatic pistol.

This she proposed to do with the help of a knuckle-duster, which she produced and gave to Gaudry.

He had the medal in it still between his fingers, using it like a knuckle-duster.

April 24, 2024gallimaufry

[gal-uh-maw-free ]

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