dok

Dok is a term that appears in multiple languages and fields, yielding different meanings depending on context. In science, it refers to a family of cytoplasmic adaptor proteins. In education, it is the acronym for Depth of Knowledge, a framework for categorizing task complexity. In Dutch and related languages, dok is a common noun meaning dock or wharf. The term also occurs as a personal surname or given name in some cultures.

In biology, the Docking protein family (DOK) includes proteins such as DOK1, DOK2, and DOK3. These proteins function as cytoplasmic adaptors that bind phosphorylated receptors and recruit downstream signaling molecules, helping to regulate pathways like PI3K–AKT and Ras–MAPK. DOK proteins influence cell growth, differentiation, and immune signaling, and their dysregulation has been linked to various cancers and immune disorders. They are conserved across vertebrates and appear in some invertebrates, with functional roles that vary by tissue context.

In education, Depth of Knowledge (DOK) is a taxonomy developed to classify the cognitive demands of instructional activities and assessment items. DOK levels range from basic recall and routine procedures to strategic thinking and extended complex reasoning. The framework is used to guide curriculum design, item construction, and performance assessments, aiming to measure genuine understanding rather than superficial recall.

In Dutch and other Germanic languages, dok denotes a harbor facility and is encountered in nautical terms, signage, and place names. The word reflects historical shore-based commerce and transportation and remains part of everyday nautical vocabulary in some regions.

As a name, Dok is found as a surname or given name in certain communities, contributing to its broader cross-cultural usage.