Knuckle UnderKnuckle Under : PhrasesMeaning: To give way; submit; admit defeat. Example: The Italian and German riders knuckled under the pressure from Lance Armstrong during the final stages of the Tour de France. Origin: This expression goes back to the late 17th century tavern habit of knocking the underside of the table when beaten in an argument - they put their knuckles under. Alternative: Although the word knuckle now refers to the finger-joint, it used to be applied to other joints such as the knee. To knuckle under meant to bend the knee in respect or submission. Phrases Index
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