granny knot

or granny's knot

noun

1. an incorrect version of a square knot in which the bights cross each other in the wrong direction next to the end, so as to produce a knot that is insecure.

granny knot

noun

1. a reef knot with the ends crossed the wrong way, making it liable to slip or jam

Word History and Origins

Origin of granny knot¹

First recorded in 1850–55; so called in contempt