nock

[ nok ]

noun

1. a metal or plastic piece at the end of an arrow, having a notch for the bowstring.
2. a notch or groove at the end of an arrow into which the bowstring fits.
3. a notch or groove at each end of a bow, to hold the bowstring in place.
4. Nautical. throat ( def 6a ).

verb (used with object)

1. to furnish with a nock.
2. to adjust (the arrow) to the bowstring, in readiness to shoot.

nock

/ nɒk /

noun

1. a notch on an arrow that fits on the bowstring
2. either of the grooves at each end of a bow that hold the bowstring

verb

1. to fit (an arrow) on a bowstring
2. to put a groove or notch in (a bow or arrow)

Word History and Origins

Origin of nock¹

1325–75; Middle English nok ( ke ) (noun); akin to Dutch nok, Low German nok ( ke ) tip

Word History and Origins

Origin of nock¹

C14: related to Swedish nock tip

Example Sentences

Without taking her eyes off the first target, Anya pulled an arrow out of her quiver, nocked it against the bowstring, and breathed deeply through her nose.

From Literature

By the time he reached the helm, he had already fired one arrow and was nocking the second.

From Literature

Taran and the bard drew their swords, Gurgi nocked an arrow into his bowstring, and the weary band made ready to defend themselves as best they could.

From Literature

She nocked the arrow and loosed it in the direction of the Cauldron-Born.

From Literature

Hafer believes that archery — the mental and physical process of nocking the arrow, drawing the bow, aiming and then releasing the string — is therapeutic.

From New York Times