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

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

From BBC • Feb. 1, 2025

He really grabbed the entire Pakistan team by the scruff of the neck.

From BBC • Oct. 26, 2024

You have to be sure you are never going to take your hand off the scruff of that cat's neck until you get it into the bathtub.

From Salon • Aug. 15, 2024

“Well, don’t you leave,” said Hazel, “or I’ll tell Kehaar to bring you back by the scruff of the neck. I’m relying on you to produce us a really good Owsla.”

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams