stiff neck

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.

Initial symptoms of meningitis include headache, fever, drowsiness and a stiff neck -- but those are symptoms of different illnesses and can hamper prompt diagnosis.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

Saffanah, from Stockton-on-Tees, fell ill in January after complaining of a stiff neck and light sensitivity, and within 24 hours she was in an induced coma.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2025

Symptoms can include headache, muscle aches, fever, confusion, loss of balance, stiff neck and diarrhea.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 22, 2024

Typical symptoms include fever, headaches, stiff neck, vomiting, light sensitivity and altered mental status.

From New York Times • Mar. 29, 2024

My mom stands there in her little spotlight, not moving, like she’s got a stiff neck or something.

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy