An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

The end part of an → arrow having a notch for holding the bowstring.

Etymology (EN): M.E. nok(ke); of uncertain origin; cf. Swedish nock “notch;”
also M.L.G. nokk, Dutch nok “tip of a sail.”

Etymology (PE): Sufâr “the notch in the arrow which receives the string,” also “the eye of needle,” related to softan, sombidan “to pierce;” Mid.Pers. sôftan “to pierce, bore;” cf. Pashtu suray, Wakhi sərv “hole, cavity,” Munji surv “hole,” Yidgha surv, Kurd. sontin; Proto-Ir. sup, sub, sump, sumb “to pierce.”