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ajar

/əˈdʒɑr/
/əˈdʒɑ/
IPA guide

The adjective ajar describes something that is slightly open. A door that has been left ajar is easily pushed open by the wind or a nosy person.

To correctly pronounce ajar, say "uh-JAR." People in a hurry leave drawers and cabinet doors ajar, or hanging open. If a chime starts ringing when you start a car, a door or the trunk may be ajar. Check that everything is securely closed before taking off. But don't describe a mouth that is open in surprise as ajar. A better word choice is agape.

Definitions of ajar
  1. adjective
    slightly open
    “the door was ajar
    synonyms:
    open, unfastened
    affording unobstructed entrance and exit; not shut or closed
Pronunciation
US
/əˈdʒɑr/
UK
/əˈdʒɑ/
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