Knōw'-noth'ing, n.

(nō'nōth'ing, or nō'nūth'ing), n. A member of a certain secret political organization in the United States, the chief object of which was the proscription of foreigners by the repeal of the naturalization laws and the exclusive choice of native Americans for office. The most radical of the party advocated also a pure American school system, and uncompromising opposition to Romanism. [U. S.] Bartlett.

☞— The party originated in 1853, and existed for two or three years. The members of it were called Know-nothings, because, in the endeavor to preserve the secrecy of their movements, they were instructed to reply, “I don't know,” to any questions asked them in reference to the party.