subs. (old and American).—A thief. Short for KNUCKLE (q.v.).
1834. W. H. AINSWORTH, Rookwood, ‘Jerry Juniper’s Chaunt.’ The KNUCKS in quod did my schoolmen play.
1848. E. Z. C. JUDSON (‘Ned Buntline’), The Mysteries and Miseries of New York, ch. iv. For many a year it has been known the ‘crossmen’ and ‘KNUCKS’ of the town as ‘Jack Circle’s watering place.’ Ibid. You’re as good a KNUCK as ever frisked a swell!
Verb. (American).—To steal. For synonyms, see PRIG.
1848. E. Z. C. JUDSON (‘Ned Buntline’), The Mysteries and Miseries of New York, iv. It’s enough to break my heart to see a man of your talent forced to prig prancers, KNUCK trikers, and go on the low sneaks!
