knapp

Meaning

Adj

1. scarce
2. lean (having little extra)
3. somewhat less (than)
4. short or tight
5. a close call, a narrow escape

Adv

1. narrowly, just, barely
2. somewhat less than, almost

Pronounced as (IPA)

/knap/

Etymology

From Middle Low German knap, probably related to Old Norse hneppr (“button”) and hneppa (“pinch”), all from Proto-Germanic *knappô, *knappa-, which is perhaps related to *knappō (“knob, boy”). Cognate with Dutch knap, but of uncertain ultimate origin. Also compare Danish næppe (“hardly at all”).

Sentences

Dieser Bericht wurde gestern Abend knapp vor Mitternacht diskutiert .

It was late last night – just before midnight – that this report was debated.