With knobs on Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Exaggeration Cue Use 'with knobs on' when describing something that's a more intense version of another thing. It's not just cold outside, it's winter with knobs on! Pro Tip 2/3Casual Tone It's informal, so use it in casual conversations, not in formal writings or speeches. This isn't just a mess, it's a disaster with knobs on! Pro Tip 3/3British Flavor It's a British idiom; other English speakers may not be familiar with it. His new car isn't fast, it's a rocket with knobs on – to the Brits at least.