knack

[nak]

noun

1. a special skill, talent, or aptitude.

   He had a knack for saying the right thing.

   Synonyms: dexterity, facility, aptness

2. a clever or adroit way of doing something.

3. a trick or ruse.

4. a sharp, cracking sound.

5. Archaic.,  a knickknack; trinket.

knack

/ næk /

noun

1. a skilful, ingenious, or resourceful way of doing something

2. a particular talent or aptitude, esp an intuitive one

Word History and Origins

Origin of knack¹

1325–75; Middle English: trick; perhaps same word as knak sharp-sounding blow, rap, cracking noise (imitative)

Word History and Origins

Origin of knack¹

C14: probably variant of knak sharp knock, rap, of imitative origin

Example Sentences

That includes one whose knack for surviving one of the galaxy’s most lethal species makes her a symbol of feminist ferocity and a pop culture icon.

From Salon

She came to television already fluent in the rhythms of instruction — the patience, the humor, the knack for making technique feel accessible.

From Salon

Polaroids, knick knacks and mementos are carefully arranged in various tableaus — much as he left them.

From Los Angeles Times

Cuomo leaned into the moment with a cheeky campaign stunt, mocking Adams’ troubles while reminding voters of his own knack for theatrics.

From Salon

“He’s got a knack,” coach Guy Gardner said of Flowers’ ability to cover receivers.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aptitude 
• dexterity 
• flair 
• genius 
• ingenuity 
• propensity 
• quickness www.thesaurus.com
• savvy 
• skill