muzzle

The definition of a muzzle is the nose and mouth part of an animal, or a device that goes over the nose and mouth of an animal.

(noun)

An example of a muzzle is a dog's snout.
An example of a muzzle is a fabric instrument that goes over a dog's snout to prevent biting.

Muzzle is defined as to prevent from biting or making noise.

(verb)

An example of muzzle is to put your hand over someone's mouth.

See muzzle in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the projecting part of the head of a dog, horse, etc., including the mouth, nose, and jaws; snout
a device, as of straps, fastened over the mouth of an animal to prevent its biting or eating
anything that prevents free speech or discussion
the front end of the barrel of a firearm

Origin: ME mosel < OFr musel, snout, muzzle, dim. of mus < ML musum < ?

transitive verb muzzled, muzzling

Related Forms:

See muzzle in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

The forward, projecting part of the head of certain animals, such as dogs, including the mouth, nose, and jaws; the snout.
A leather or wire restraining appliance that, when fitted over an animal's snout, prevents biting and eating.
The forward, discharging end of the barrel of a firearm.
A restraint on free movement or expression: had a muzzle put on their high spirits.

transitive verb muz·zled, muz·zling, muz·zles