Definition of jack-in-the-box in English:
jack-in-the-box
nounˈdʒakɪnðəbɒksˈdʒæk ɪn ðə ˌbɑks
A toy consisting of a box containing a figure on a spring which pops up when the lid is opened.
Example sentencesExamples
- This charming musical jack-in-the-box is certain to delight anyone who holds it in their hands! As you turn the crank, the melody plays and when the music stops, out pops the jester.
- The jack-in-the-box offers continual delight. Known since the 16th century, and appearing as a Punch box (minus sidekick Judy), an admiral on a stick, and a Johnny jump-up, sometimes the jack figure was more horrible than humorous.
Definition of jack-in-the-box in US English:
jack-in-the-box
nounˈdʒæk ɪn ðə ˌbɑksˈjak in T͟Hə ˌbäks
A toy consisting of a box containing a figure on a spring which pops up when the lid is opened.
Example sentencesExamples
- This charming musical jack-in-the-box is certain to delight anyone who holds it in their hands! As you turn the crank, the melody plays and when the music stops, out pops the jester.
- The jack-in-the-box offers continual delight. Known since the 16th century, and appearing as a Punch box (minus sidekick Judy), an admiral on a stick, and a Johnny jump-up, sometimes the jack figure was more horrible than humorous.