lockjaw
Lockjaw (noun) means a common name for tetanus, a disease that causes severe muscle spasms, especially in the jaw. Example: “Untreated lockjaw can be fatal if it affects the muscles used for breathing.”
How to use lockjaw
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe everyday name for tetanus, a bacterial infection that stiffens the jaw and other muscles.
Word forms
lockjaws plural
Fill the gap
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Untreated _____ can be fatal if it affects the muscles used for breathing.
Etymology
A compound of lock + jaw, describing how the jaw muscles seize up.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “lockjaw” mean?
The word “lockjaw” means a common name for tetanus, a disease that causes severe muscle spasms, especially in the jaw. In plain terms, the everyday name for tetanus, a bacterial infection that stiffens the jaw and other muscles.
How do you use “lockjaw” in a sentence?
Here is “lockjaw” used in a sentence: “Untreated lockjaw can be fatal if it affects the muscles used for breathing.”
What part of speech is “lockjaw”?
“Lockjaw” is a noun.
What is the meaning of lockjaw?
"lockjaw" (noun) means a common name for tetanus, a disease that causes severe muscle spasms, especially in the jaw.
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