English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word shank in English

What does shank mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

shank

US /ʃæŋk/
UK /ʃæŋk/
"shank" picture

Noun

1.

the part of the human leg between the knee and the ankle

Example:
•
He got a deep cut on his shank while hiking.
•
The dog gnawed on the bone until only the shank remained.
Synonym:
shin lower leg
2.

a long, thin, usually pointed knife or other sharp object, especially one improvised as a weapon

Example:
•
The prisoner was caught with a homemade shank.
•
He used a sharpened spoon as a shank.
Synonym:
knife blade shiv

Verb

to stab (someone) with a homemade knife or other sharp object

Example:
•
He threatened to shank anyone who crossed him.
•
The gang member tried to shank his rival during the prison riot.
Synonym:
stab knife pierce
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Related Word:
shanks' mare