jack-in-the-box

Or jack-in-a-box

[jak-in-thuh-boks]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

plural

jack-in-the-boxes

a toy consisting of a box from which an enclosed figure springs up when the lid is opened.

jack-in-the-box

noun

a toy consisting of a figure on a compressed spring in a box, which springs out when the lid is opened

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Word History and Origins

Origin of jack-in-the-box¹

First recorded in 1545–55

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Pakistan's jack-in-the-box surprise element now feels akin to a cliche from a bygone era.

From

Australia left the UK last summer with their baggy greens spinning, and India are now twisting the handle of the jack-in-the-box, terrified of when it will burst open.

From

He demonstrates with a broad smile, his sinewy frame repeatedly squatting, then snapping back up, like a peppy jack-in-the-box.

From

She transformed a set of headphones into a jack-in-the-box figure wearing headphones while playing a guitar.

From

While not wildly original, his jack-in-the-box surprises are skillfully, tautly executed.

From

jack-in-office jack-in-the-green

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