knuckle-duster

[ nuhk-uh l-duhs-ter ]
/ ˈnʌk əlˌdʌs tər /

noun

Origin of knuckle-duster

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60

Example sentences from the Web for knuckle-dusters

  • Nets may not be so spectacular as knuckle-dusters, but they are slightly more civilised and generally more efficient.

    Germany, The Next Republic? |Carl W. Ackerman
  • He does not fight with knuckle-dusters or kick with his heavy boots.

    The Toilers of the Field |Richard Jefferies
  • There'd been a strike in the mine, an' my friend had took it in hand with knuckle-dusters on.

    Northern Lights, Complete |Gilbert Parker

British Dictionary definitions for knuckle-dusters

knuckle-duster

noun

(often plural) a metal bar fitted over the knuckles, often with holes for the fingers, for inflicting injury by a blow with the fist