brass knuckles

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction
: knuckle sense 4

Examples of brass knuckles in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some stores sell electronics equipment, beach gear and brass knuckles. — Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 27 Feb. 2026 Rollins sneaked into the ring area and took the brass knuckles out of Theory’s reach. — Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 22 June 2026 The weapons allegedly included knives and brass knuckles. — Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 10 Feb. 2026 Self-defense items such as mace, kitty claws, or brass knuckles will be detected and surely require additional screening. — Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 15 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for brass knuckles

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of brass knuckles was in 1853

Rhymes for brass knuckles

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Browse Nearby Words

brass-knuckled
brass knuckles
brass pounder
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Brass knuckles.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/brass%20knuckles. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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