# knuckle down

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/knuckle-down
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To get to work; to focus on a task.

## Examples

- I need to knuckle down and finish my homework.
- With the final exams approaching next week, the students decided to knuckle down and study in the library.
- Recognizing that the project deadline was rapidly approaching, the team finally knuckled down to resolve the remaining technical challenges.

## Origin

First attested in 1864 in American English, the phrase originates in the game of marbles. The expression refers to the requirement that a player place their knuckles firmly on the ground before shooting.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.