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

No-one was inspiring a team that once again looked lost to grab the game by the scruff of the neck.

From BBC • Dec. 3, 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

A team of young, unflappable characters is a positive, but sometimes you need players to take the game by the scruff of the neck.

From BBC • Oct. 29, 2024

He put down his left hand and scratched her forehead and the back of her ears and the scruff of her neck.

From "American Gods" by Neil Gaiman