knee: Meaning and Definition of

knee

1. the joint of the leg that allows for movement between the femur and tibia and is protected by the patella; the central area of the leg between the thigh and the lower leg. See diag. under
2. the corresponding joint or region in the hind leg of a quadruped; stifle.
3. a joint or region likened to this but not anatomically homologous with it, as the tarsal joint of a bird, the carpal joint in the forelimb of the horse or cow, etc.
4. the part of a garment covering the knee.
5. something resembling a bent knee, esp. a rigid or braced angle between two framing members.
6. Also calledthe inward curve toward the top of a cabriole leg.
1. the junction of the top and either of the uprights of a bent.
2. a curved member for reinforcing the junction of two pieces meeting at an angle.
8. a stone cut to follow a sharp return angle.
9. to force someone into submission or compliance.
10. to squelch or humiliate (a person) suddenly and thoroughly: The speaker cut the heckler off at the knees.
11. I came to him on my knees for the money.
1. in a supplicatory position or manner:I came to him on my knees for the money.
2. in a desperate or declining condition:The country's economy is on its knees.

1. to strike or touch with the knee.
2. to secure (a structure, as a bent) with a knee.

1. to go down on the knees; kneel.