lockjaw

noun

lock·​jaw ˈläk-ˌjȯ How to pronounce lockjaw (audio)
: an early symptom of tetanus characterized by spasm of the jaw muscles and inability to open the jaws
also : tetanus

Examples of lockjaw in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tetanus is a potentially deadly bacterial infection that can enter the body through a scrape or cut and causes severe, painful muscle spasms, including in the neck and jaw, which is why it’s commonly called lockjaw. — Melissa Dahl, NBC News, 22 Feb. 2025 And The Golden Key goes to … Rachel, who gave herself lockjaw before the Fantasy Suites by jumping into a cenote and hitting her head? — Ali Barthwell, Vulture, 12 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1768, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lockjaw was in 1768

Rhymes for lockjaw

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Browse Nearby Words

locking ring
lockjaw
lock-joint
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Cite this Entry

“Lockjaw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lockjaw. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

lockjaw

noun
lock·​jaw ˈläk-ˌjȯ How to pronounce lockjaw (audio)
: a symptom of tetanus marked by spasms of the jaw muscles and inability to open the jaws
also : tetanus sense 1

Medical Definition

lockjaw

noun
lock·​jaw ˈläk-ˌjȯ How to pronounce lockjaw (audio)
: an early symptom of tetanus characterized by spasm of the jaw muscles and inability to open the jaws
also : tetanus sense 1a

More from Merriam-Webster on lockjaw

Nglish: Translation of lockjaw for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lockjaw

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