knocker
UK[ˈnɒkə]US[ˈnɑːkər]
n
a hinged metal or wooden device on a door, used for knocking to announce one's arrival.
n
a person or thing that knocks.
n
(informal, chiefly british) a woman's breast.
Morpheme Breakdown
knock
er
knock
er
Etymology
the word 'knocker' is a transparent english compound formed from the old english verb 'cnocian' (to knock) and the agentive suffix '-er'. the verb 'knock' itself is of imitative origin, likely from a proto-germanic root representing the sound of a sharp blow. the suffix '-er' is one of the most productive in english for forming agent nouns, directly attaching to verbs. therefore, the literal meaning 'one who or that which knocks' evolved naturally to specify the door-fitting designed for that precise purpose, with figurative extensions following later.
Analysis
Structure: knock + er
- knock (old english): the core verb meaning 'to strike a blow'.
- er (old english): an agent noun suffix, indicating 'a person or thing that performs the action'.
Examples
the heavy brass knocker on the old oak door was shaped like a lion's head.
he was known as a persistent knocker, always trying to sell something.
she adjusted her dress, complaining that the tight fit was uncomfortable for her knockers.