knack

noun

ˈnak 

1

: a special ready capacity that is hard to analyze or teach

2

a

: a clever trick or stratagem

b

: a clever way of doing something

3

archaic : an ingenious device

broadly : toy, knickknack

Synonyms

• artifice
• device
• dodge
• fetch
• flimflam
• gambit
• gimmick
• jig
• juggle
• play
• ploy
• ruse
• scheme
• shenanigan
• sleight
• stratagem
• trick
• wile

Choose the Right Synonym for knack

gift, faculty, aptitude, bent, talent, genius, knack mean a special ability for doing something.

gift often implies special favor by God or nature.

the gift of singing beautifully

faculty applies to an innate or less often acquired ability for a particular accomplishment or function.

a faculty for remembering names

aptitude implies a natural liking for some activity and the likelihood of success in it.

a mechanical aptitude

bent is nearly equal to aptitude but it stresses inclination perhaps more than specific ability.

a family with an artistic bent

talent suggests a marked natural ability that needs to be developed.

has enough talent to succeed

genius suggests impressive inborn creative ability.

has no great genius for poetry

knack implies a comparatively minor but special ability making for ease and dexterity in performance.

the knack of getting along

Examples of knack in a Sentence

She has a knack for telling interesting stories.

The jazz musician has an incredible knack for improvisation.

Recent Examples on the Web

Linehan noted Hamper’s role evolved from being more of a blocker in the run game to being utilized as a pass-catcher on tunnel screens and intermediate throws because of his knack for finding open lanes. —Jesse Temple, The Athletic, 10 Jan. 2025

Lawrence Kansas Jayhawks guard Shakeel Moore has a knack for making big plays on the basketball court. —Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 9 Jan. 2025

Off Season is a venture that enmeshes Kristin’s knack for creativity and craftsmanship. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 7 Jan. 2025

Charly's playful knack for finding the best lounging spots is reflective of the breed's charming characteristics. —Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 6 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English knak

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Kids Definition

knack

noun

ˈnak 

1

: a clever or skillful way of doing something : trick

2

: a natural ability : talent

has a knack for making friends