Skip to main content
Dictionary
Store
Blog
World
Help
Advertise
Chat
System Status
Information Collection Notice
Trademark Concerns
reCAPTCHA Privacy
Terms of Service
reCAPTCHA Terms
Privacy Policy
Accessibility
Report a Bug
Data Request
Contact Us
Security
DMCA
© 1999–2026 Urban Dictionary ®
Mugs
Tees
Hoodies
Pro Customization
Create unique products with your own words and definitions
Preview
Personalize Your Design
Your Word
Your Definition
“I Took an Arrow in the Knee” is a memorable quote originating from the role-playing video game The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. An often repeated stock line throughout the game, it went on to inspire the snowclone “I used to X, then I took an arrow to the knee.” Largely owing to the positive reception of Skyrim, “I Took An Arrow To The Knee” eventually became perceived as a hyper-saturated cliche, similar to “The Cake Is A Lie” from the puzzle action game Portal. In response to the indiscriminate usage of the phrase, some fans of the game began posting satirical animations and image macros criticizing its hackneyed nature. It is also argued that Taking an arrow in the knee is a Nordic saying meaning "Getting married." Thus, "I used to be an adventurer like you...then I took an arrow in the knee," actually means that getting married ended his adventuring career.
Text fits
Save
Cancel