Phrase borrowed from American football terminology to indicate a player or team running out the final seconds of a football game (the act itself consists of literally touching one's knee to the floor to facilitate the running of the game clock), "taking a knee" is the act of putting oneself in cruise control, usually in a work setting or some other undesirable situation. The individual is physically present, but his mind is not on his task, and there may even be some goofing off associated with "taking a knee." Mostly used by professional sports savvy men.
Since it is the Friday before a long weekend and I don't want to do any work, I'm "taking a knee" today.
by JeffP August 30, 2005
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An American football term for when the quarterback drops to one knee immediately after receiving the snap, thus automatically ending the play.

The use of taking a knee comes only near the end of a game when your team is in possession of the ball and holds a narrow lead (by a touchdown or less). If you execute a run or pass play, you risk turning the ball over and allowing the opposing team to gain possession and a chance to score. By taking a knee, you are able to run down the clock without putting the ball at risk.

A boring, if strategically important, play.
Coach: John, listen - we got 5 seconds remaining, pass the ball to Porter, Porter - you'll take a knee and end this game.

Players: Goooooooooooo........ Tigers!
by BrooksMarlin August 31, 2006
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Nikki: I'm stuffed from this buffet. I'm taking a knee then going back for dessert!
Jenz: Great idea Nikki Niner, you are sooooo smart, and accurate too!
by Nikki Niner May 10, 2005
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Declining someone’s invitation.
Hey would you like to come over Friday and Netflix and Chill?

I’ll take a knee on this one.
by Christine21 October 9, 2017
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To disrespectfully kneel instead of standing up during the National Anthem to protest against politicians you don’t like, because of their discriminatory practices, racist views, or offensive comments.
Imagine if every time an employee or football player doesn’t like something about their CEO or president, they take a knee—aren’t there better ways to justifiably convey their anger or frustration?
by MathPlus October 1, 2017
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"Take a Knee", the worst diss in sports. This term comes from American Football. Should you screw up during practice or worse, during a game, the coach tells you "take a knee" where which you go to the sideline and kneel down on one knee so that the team and audience can see your total humiliation. I first heard this term in 1984, though I know it has to originate from a date way before my time. My coach of at least 45 yrs. old at the time used this term.

Coach Says: Miss your read...Take a Knee. Miss your block...Take a Knee. Miss your hole...Take a knee.
Ex: God...mit John Doe! Get your blocks or you're taking a knee.
Ex: Je..s Freakin' Chr..t... that ball fell right through your hands, Take a Knee.
by ElCompaDelChuco April 3, 2007
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