scruff

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Jacks took the game by the scruff of the neck after England stuttered to 105-5 in the 13th over.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

"It just takes someone to grab this by the scruff of the neck and deal with this in the manner that it should be," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 16, 2025

For good measure, Song has also saddled Evans with the worst haircut and scruff of his career.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2025

Moriarty figures heavily in the opening episodes of “Sherlock & Daughter” too, although Dougray Scott lends a malevolent scruff to him that Park’s interpretation tidies up.

From Salon • Apr. 16, 2025

In a moment, the young man had his hand fastened on the scruff of the cub’s neck and the animal shrank down.

From "Tiger, Tiger" by Lynne Reid Banks