nock

1 of 2

noun

ˈnäk How to pronounce nock (audio)
Synonyms of nocknext
1
: one of the notches cut in either of two tips of horn fastened on the ends of a bow or in the bow itself for holding the string
2
a
: the part of an arrow having a notch for the bowstring
b
: the notch itself

nock

2 of 2

verb

nocked; nocking; nocks

transitive verb

1
: to make a nock in (a bow or arrow)
2
: to fit (an arrow) against the bowstring

Examples of nock 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.
Noun
When the bow is limber enough to bend over your knee, whittle nocks 1 inch from either end, cutting into the sides only. — Keith McCafferty, Field & Stream, 29 June 2023

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English nocke notched tip on the end of a bow; akin to Middle Dutch nocke summit

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nock was in the 14th century

Rhymes for nock

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Browse Nearby Words

nocive
nock
nockerl
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nock. Accessed 8 Apr. 2025.

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