Silent k

A silent ⟨k⟩ occurs when the letter ⟨k⟩ occurs in a word but does not actually reflect the pronunciation of a voiceless velar plosive (/k/), or any sound for that matter. A silent ⟨k⟩ is quite common in the English language, most often preceding an ⟨n⟩ at the beginning of a word. There are rare exceptions to this rule; one example is Knoebels Grove located in Pennsylvania.

Etymology

In Old English the ⟨k⟩ was not silent. Cognates in other Germanic languages show that the ⟨k⟩ was likely a voiceless velar plosive in Proto-Germanic (compare German Knecht to knight, Knoten to knot, etc.).

Words

Following is a list of words that include a silent ⟨k⟩:

Nouns

• knapsack,
• knar,
• knave
• knawel
• knead
• knee
• knapweed
• knick-knack
• knickers
• knife
• knight
• knob
• knop
• knotweed
• knout
• knock, knocker
• knoll
• knowledge
• knuckle
• knur
• knurl

Verbs

• knack
• knap
• knock
• kneel
• knell
• knit
• knock
• knot
• know
• knut

Others

• knuepple
• knacker

This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.

See also

• Silent letter
• Silent e