First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
knead
verb \ˈnēd\
: to prepare (dough) by pressing a mixture of flour, water, etc., with your hands
: to press and squeeze (a person's muscles) with your hands
Full Definition of KNEAD
transitive verb
1
a : to work and press into a mass with or as if with the hands <kneading dough> b : to manipulate or massage with a kneading motion <kneaded sore neck muscles>
2
: to form or shape by or as if by kneading
— knead·able \ˈnē-də-bəl\ adjective
— knead·er noun
See knead defined for English-language learners
See knead defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of KNEAD
Middle English kneden, from Old English cnedan; akin to Old High German knetan to knead
KNEADABLE Defined for Kids
knead
verb \ˈnēd\
knead·edknead·ing
Definition of KNEAD for Kids
1
: to work and press into a mass with or as if with the hands <You must knead the dough before baking.>
Learn More About KNEAD
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: kneaded eraserPrevious Word in the Dictionary: knawelAll Words Near: knead
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up knead? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).