† knalObs.rare—1. [Echoic: cf. G. knall loud report, blow (hence Da.knald, Sw.knall), Du.knal; cf. knell n.Mod.dial. (Lincolnsh. etc.) has knowl, knoll in same sense.] A stroke, knock, esp. on the head. c1380Sir Ferumb. 463* On þyn heued y ȝeue þe a knal.