: 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.
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 As long as one of them doesn't get lockjaw first. Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 15 Sep. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1768, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lockjaw was in 1768

Dictionary Entries Near lockjaw

Cite this Entry

“Lockjaw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lockjaw. Accessed 29 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

: a symptom of tetanus marked by spasms of the jaw muscles and inability to open the jaws

Medical Definition

: an early symptom of tetanus characterized by spasm of the jaw muscles and inability to open the jaws

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