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

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

England had an opportunity to grab them by the scruff of the neck and make it all about them.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2025

They desperately needed someone to stand up and take the game by the scruff of the neck.

From BBC • Feb. 1, 2025

I suppose the school board figured that if Mrs. Sidman could pick up two huge rats by the scruff of their necks and carry them through the halls, she could certainly handle middle schoolers.

From "The Wednesday Wars" by Gary D. Schmidt