ajar

adjective or adverb

: slightly open
left the door ajar

Examples of ajar 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.
Large west- and south-facing windows were completely missing their glass panes, shattered glass littered the pathways and doors stood ajar amid signs of charring. Marc Levy, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025 Large west- and south-facing windows were completely missing their glass panes, shattered glass littered the pathways, and doors stood ajar amid signs of charring. Marc Levy, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2025 Play-in race: With the Atlanta Hawks blown out 121-105 at home Saturday by the New York Knicks, the door had moved slightly ajar for the Heat to move into the Nos. 7-8 play-in game, which affords two chances to win one game to make the playoffs. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 5 Apr. 2025 Behind Judith Bruce, a French door is slightly ajar. Devan Díaz, Los Angeles Times, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ajar

Word History

Etymology

earlier on char, from Middle English, from on + char turn — more at chare

First Known Use

1559, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ajar was in 1559

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ajar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ajar. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

ajar

adverb or adjective
: slightly open
left the door ajar

More from Merriam-Webster on ajar

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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