Meaning & Definition of word "Ajar"
to
Ajar
/əˈdʒɑːr/
adjective:
- 1. Partially open.
- Example: The door was left ajar, allowing a sliver of light to escape into the dark hallway.
- 2. Not fully shut; slightly open.
- Example: She pushed it open only enough to see that the window was ajar.
- 3. Used to describe a state of being incomplete in the action of closing.
- Example: He walked up to the cabinet, noticing that the drawer was slightly ajar.
Etymology
Early 16th century, from the phrase 'a jar', meaning 'out of place'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
door ajar:
A door that is slightly open.
keep the door ajar:
To allow for a possibility or to leave an option open.
Related Words
crack:
A narrow opening.
gap:
A break or hole in something.
opening:
An act of becoming open.