This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
jack-in-the-box
or jack-in-a-box
[ jak-in-thuh-boks ]
/ ˈdʒæk ɪn ðəˌbɒks /
Save This Word!
This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
noun, plural jack-in-the-box·es.
a toy consisting of a box from which an enclosed figure springs up when the lid is opened.
QUIZ
WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?
Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!
Question 1 of 7
Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.
Origin of jack-in-the-box
First recorded in 1545–55
Words nearby jack-in-the-box
Jackie, jackie tar, jack in, jacking engine, jack-in-office, jack-in-the-box, jack-in-the-green, jack-in-the-pulpit, Jack Ketch, jackknife, jackknife-fish
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use jack-in-the-box in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for jack-in-the-box
jack-in-the-box
noun plural jack-in-the-boxes or jacks-in-the-box
a toy consisting of a figure on a compressed spring in a box, which springs out when the lid is opened
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012