Obs. [f. as prec. + -ING2.] That knacks: in senses of the verb. Knacking earnest, downright earnest.
1496. Dives & Paup. (W. de W.), I. lix. 102/1. This curyouse knackynge songe of the vycyouse mynystres in the chirche.
1526. Skelton, Magnyf., 33. Fel. Here you not howe this gentylman mockys. Lyb. Ye, to knackynge ernyst what an it preue?
a. 1553. Udall, Royster D., III. ii. (Arb.), 41. Sure, the partie is in good knacking earnest.
1644. Bulwer, Chiron., 82. This knacking adjunct of expression.
Mod. Yorksh. Dial., He is a knacking sort of talker.
