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Intermediate Dictionary        

muz·zle

muzzle

 
 
pronunciation:
muh zl
parts of speech:
noun, verb
features:
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part of speech: noun
definition 1: the part of the head of some animals that contains the nose, jaws, and mouth.
Some dogs have a long muzzle and others, like boxers, do not.
synonyms:
snout
definition 2: a device made of leather or wire mesh that is placed over this part of the head to keep the animal from biting, eating, or barking.
 
similar words:
bridle
definition 3: the open end of the barrel of a gun. A bullet is shot out of a gun through the muzzle. Old rifles were loaded through the muzzle.
similar words:
barrel
definition 4: something that holds back or stops free expression.
In some countries, the government puts a muzzle on news reporters.
similar words:
check, curb, limit
 
part of speech: verb
inflections: muzzles, muzzling, muzzled
definition 1: to cover the jaws and mouth to stop from biting, barking, or eating.
Our neighbor muzzled his dog after it tried to bite someone.
similar words:
bridle, restrain
definition 2: to stop from speaking freely in public.
The harsh government muzzled anyone who complained about the new laws.
synonyms:
limit, restrict
similar words:
censor, confine, curb, hinder, hush, obstruct, restrain
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  dog, head, pet, weapon