knee-jerk reflex
n.
patellar reflex
Words nearby knee-jerk reflex
knee-deep,
knee-elbow position,
knee-high,
knee-high to a grasshopper,
knee-jerk,
knee-jerk reflex,
knee-length,
knee-slapper,
knee-socks,
knee-sprung,
knee-trembling
Cultural definitions for knee-jerk reflex
knee-jerk reflex
A sudden involuntary forward movement of the lower leg that can be produced by a firm tap to the tendon located just below the kneecap.
notes for knee-jerk reflex
The term is loosely applied to any response or belief that is automatic rather than thoughtful. In this sense, it is usually a term of reproach: “Smith is a knee-jerk
liberal.”