Lockjaw

Pronunciation: /lɑːkˌdʒɔː/

Definitions of lockjaw

noun a condition in which the muscles of the jaw become rigid and painful, typically as a result of infection with tetanus

Example Sentences

A1 Lockjaw is a medical condition that causes difficulty opening the mouth.

A2 If you have lockjaw, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

B1 Lockjaw, also known as tetanus, can be prevented with a vaccine.

B2 The symptoms of lockjaw include muscle stiffness and difficulty swallowing.

C1 Lockjaw can be a serious complication of an untreated wound.

C2 The doctor diagnosed the patient with lockjaw and started treatment right away.

Examples of lockjaw in a Sentence

formal Lockjaw, also known as tetanus, is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system.

informal I heard that lockjaw can be caused by stepping on a rusty nail.

slang My jaw is so tight, it feels like I have lockjaw!

figurative After the accident, he was so shocked that he had a case of emotional lockjaw and couldn't speak for hours.

Grammatical Forms of lockjaw

• past tense: locked
• plural: lockjaws
• comparative: more lockjaw
• superlative: most lockjaw
• present tense: lockjaw
• future tense: will lockjaw
• perfect tense: have lockedjaw
• continuous tense: is lockjaws
• singular: lockjaw
• positive degree: lockjaw
• infinitive: to lockjaw
• gerund: lockjawing
• participle: lockjawed

Origin and Evolution of lockjaw

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Old English

Story behind the word: The word 'lockjaw' originated from the Old English word 'locc' meaning 'lock' and 'jaws' referring to the muscles of the jaw that become rigid and difficult to open.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe the medical condition tetanus, 'lockjaw' has evolved to also refer to a feeling of tightness or tension in the jaw or facial muscles, often associated with stress or anxiety.