
By the scruff of the/somebody’s neck
Literal Use
Used to describe physically holding an animal (or rarely, a person) at the neck's back.
The mother cat carried her kitten by the scruff of its neck.
Physical Control
Indicates someone is being controlled or handled in a rough, physical way.
The officer grabbed the suspect by the scruff of the neck.
Dominant Action
Shows an assertive and dominant action, often implying discipline or authority.
The nanny took the unruly child by the scruff of the neck to leave the park. WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension