1.
knob (a round handle on a door, drawer, or appliance)
A round handle that one turns or pulls — most commonly a door knob, but also drawer knobs and tuning knobs on devices.
ノブ is a loanword from English "knob," referring to a round, gripping handle that is turned or pulled. By far the most common usage is for door knobs (ドアノブ).
Common collocations
- ノブを回す: to turn a knob
- ノブを握る: to grip a knob
- ノブが壊れる: a knob breaks
- ドアノブ: doorknob (very frequent compound)
- ボリュームノブ: volume knob (on audio equipment)
- ガスコンロのノブ: gas-stove control knob
Usage
- ノブ alone is most often understood as ドアノブ unless the context suggests otherwise.
- Traditional Japanese homes often used 取っ手 (lever-style or sliding handles) rather than knobs; ノブ is associated more with Western-style doors.
Related words
- ドアノブ: doorknob
- 取っ手: handle (general — includes knobs, lever handles, suitcase handles, etc.)
- ハンドル: handle (often used for steering wheels and lever-style handles)
- 把手 / 把手: handle (more formal/written term)
Scope note
- The English word "knob" can also mean "a small lump" or carry slang/vulgar meanings in British English. Japanese ノブ has only the handle/control sense and is neutral in register.