Emily Dickinson Lexicon

knock (-ed, -ing, -s), v. [OE cnocian.] (webplay: door, rap).

1. [Lit.] rap with the fist; tap rythmically with the knuckles of the hand; [fig.] polite signal to arise; make one's presence known; draw attention; remind.
2. [Fig.] desire; seek; ask.
3. [Fig.] make a rhythmic sound; make noise; distract.
4. [Fig.] nudge; prod; hint; prompt; happen; occur; appear.