brass knuckles

noun

1. a band of metal with four holes that fits over the upper fingers and that is gripped when a fist is made, used for increasing the effect of a blow with the fist.

Word History and Origins

Origin of brass knuckles¹

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55

Example Sentences

On Wednesday, Joshua Michael Richardson, 38, was charged with felony criminal threats and possession of six high-capacity gun magazines, brass knuckles and a sword, according to the Orange County district attorney’s office.

From Los Angeles Times

Deputies arrested Richardson for criminal threats and found body armor, high-capacity magazines, brass knuckles and knives in his car, officials said.

From Los Angeles Times

The department accused several Mission officers of stealing brass knuckles and other items from motorists in the San Fernando Valley, and attempting to hide their actions from their supervisors by switching off their body-worn cameras.

From Los Angeles Times

Bold works can hit with such a wallop that it takes a beat to gauge their lasting impact, to tell which set of brass knuckles left a mark: love or hate?

From Los Angeles Times

He was punched in the face with brass knuckles and then stabbed in the chest, according to Fraijo.

From Los Angeles Times

When To Use

What else does brass knuckles mean?

Brass knuckles are a piece of metal designed to fit around the fingers by the lower knuckles and gripped by the hand. They can pack a powerful, potentially lethal punch.How do you pronounce brass knuckles?[ bras nuhk-uhls ]