Definition

A medical condition where the jaw muscles spasm, causing the mouth to be unable to open, often associated with tetanus.

Example

The patient was diagnosed with lockjaw after showing symptoms of muscle spasms in the jaw.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of lockjaw?

Yeah, isn’t that related to tetanus?

Exactly! It sounds pretty scary, right?

Definitely, I’d hate to experience something like lockjaw.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lockjaw → The word is formed from "lock" (from Old English *locc*, meaning to fasten or secure) and "jaw" (from Old English *ceafl*, meaning the lower part of the face). The term "lockjaw" refers to a condition where the jaw becomes rigid or unable to move, resembling a locked position.

Memory Tip

Think of a jaw that is 'fastened' or 'secured' ('lock') in place, which helps you remember that 'lockjaw' describes a condition where the jaw cannot move.

Visually Confused Words