Obs. rare–1. [Echoic: cf. G. knall loud report, blow (hence Da. knald, Sw. knall), Du. knal; cf. KNELL sb. Mod. dial. (Lincolnsh. etc.) has knowl, knoll in same sense.] A stroke, knock, esp. on the head.
c. 1380. Sir Ferumb., 463*. On þyn heued y ȝeue þe a knal.
