nob·by I. adjective alsoknob·by\ˈnäbē, -bi\ (-er/-est) Etymology:nob (III) + -y : of the first quality or style : of the finest design or finish : excellent, smart, stylish II. noun (-es) Etymology: perhaps from nob (II) + -y 1.: a stick sometimes used by anglers for killing fish 2.: a small fishing boat used off the Isle of Man