knob
UK: nɒb | US: nɑːb
n. a rounded handle or projection, such as on a door or drawer
n. a small lump or protuberance
n. (slang) a person’s head
The word "knob" originates from Middle English knobbe, meaning a small rounded lump or protuberance, likely of Germanic origin (compare Old Norse knappr "button" or Dutch knob "knob"). Its meaning has remained remarkably consistent, referring to rounded objects or handles. The slang usage for "head" emerged in the 19th century, humorously comparing the head's shape to a knob.
She turned the brass knob to open the antique door.
A small knob of butter melted into the warm bread.
(Slang) He rubbed his knob after bumping it on the low ceiling.
The machine’s control knob was labeled for precise adjustments.
Pinecones covered the forest floor, each with a rough knob at the base.