The Etymology and Cultural Context of 'Knocked Up'

The term 'knocked up' has a rich history that spans centuries and contexts. This article seeks to explore the origins of the term, its current usage, and the cultural implications it carries. Whether it refers to a casual expression used in casual conversations, an involuntary result of a sexual act, or a term that carries historical weight, 'knocked up' is deeply intertwined with the past and continues to influence our contemporary language.

The Historical Roots of 'Knocked Up'

The phrase has been in use since at least the early 20th century, often associated with a casual or humorous tone. However, its origins can be traced back to the American chattel slavery era, where the term carried significant economic and social implications.

During the time of slavery, a pregnant enslaved woman would fetch a higher price for her owner than a non-pregnant woman. This was because a pregnant woman's future labor, represented by her child, had monetary value. Enslaved women carrying children also signaled to the outside world that they had the breeding capacity, which was a desirable trait. At auctions, the price of a pregnant enslaved woman would be raised when the auctioneer, often referred to as the 'knocker-up,' would 'knock down' the price to signify the sale, and then 'knock up' the pregnant woman to emphasize her higher value. While this practice reflects the dehumanizing and inhumane nature of slavery, the term 'knocked up' has survived as a colloquial expression, albeit with very different connotations today.

The Linguistic Evolution

There are multiple theories about the origins of the term 'knocked up.'

One origin story suggests that the term was coined in 1813 with a hint of humor, reflecting the relationship between slave owners and their female slaves. An example of the phrase used in this context might be: "the auctioneer knocked her down i.e. closed the sale by hitting his gavel and the purchaser knocked her up." This theory highlights the power dynamics and economic motivations inherent in the term's earliest uses, serving as a reminder of the historical context from which it emerged.

Another theory traces the term back to the 15th and 16th centuries, when 'knocking houses' referred to brothels. This etymology suggests that the term 'to knock' originally meant to engage in sexual activity, and 'knocked up' eventually came to describe the resulting pregnancy. Some speculate that the term was a euphemism for the physical impact of intercourse. Others suggest that the term was used to describe the impact of beds with headboards against the wall during coitus, which could be metaphorically referred to as 'knocking.'

However, the term has evolved to mean different things in different contexts. In the United Kingdom, during the Industrial Revolution, the term was used to refer to an employee being roused to go to work. For example, a factory manager might 'knock' on the door or window of a worker to wake them up at an early hour. From this context, the term has been used to describe the act of proposing a meet-up or suggesting an impromptu visit: "I'll knock you up at 8:00 and give you a ride to work."

Cultural Implications and Modern Usage

Today, 'knocked up' is used widely but carries different connotations. In casual conversation, it is often seen as a lighthearted way to describe an unplanned pregnancy. However, this casual usage can also carry a stigma, particularly when it implies an unwanted or unintended pregnancy. The term often reflects the cultural attitudes towards pregnancy and the language surrounding it.

The evolution of the term from its origins in slavery to its current usage highlights the complexity of language. It serves as a reminder of the historical context from which many of our expressions originate and the importance of understanding these contexts to fully appreciate the depth and breadth of our language.

Understanding the etymology and cultural context of 'knocked up' not only enriches our understanding of language but also helps us navigate the complexities of its usage in contemporary discourse.