Meaning & use

muzzle

noun·Everyday

The projecting nose and mouth part of an animal's face, or a device fitted over it to prevent biting.

See it in a sentence

The dog rested its muzzle on the child's lap during the long car ride.

The vet recommended a muzzle to keep the anxious dog from biting during the exam.

A note on using this word

Muzzle also works as a verb meaning to silence or restrain someone, often used figuratively for suppressing free speech.

Words with a similar meaning

snout

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. verb

To prevent someone from speaking freely or expressing an opinion, often through restriction or censorship.

Critics accused the new policy of muzzling journalists who questioned the government.

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “muzzle”, then compare your use with the examples above.

Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.