How Do You Spell AJAR?

Pronunciation: [ɐd͡ʒˈɑː] (IPA)

The word "ajar" is commonly misspelled due to its unique pronunciation. Ajar (informally pronounced as /ədʒɑr/) signifies that a door or window is slightly open. The correct spelling emphasizes the correct representation of its pronunciation, with its vowels pronounced in the schwa-like vowel sound /ə/ and the consonants pronounced as /dʒɑr/. This type of vowel is a short, unstressed sound that is commonly used in English when stressed is not applied. Therefore, "ajar" is correctly pronounced as /əˈdʒɑr/.

AJAR Meaning and Definition

  1. Ajar is an adjective that describes the state of a door, window, or any other opening, when it is partially open or slightly averted from its closed position. It is derived from the Middle English word "on char" or "on chere," meaning "on the turn". When something is ajar, it suggests that the object is not completely closed, but rather opened enough to allow passage of light, air, or sound. The extent of being ajar can vary, from only slightly open to halfway open, depending on the context.

    The term is commonly used to indicate an object that is intentionally left partially open, allowing just enough space for limited access or observation. For example, when a door is left ajar, it signals an invitation to enter, giving a hint of accessibility while maintaining some level of privacy or control.

    In metaphorical contexts, ajar can also be used to describe something that is uncertain, undecided, or not fully resolved. It suggests a gap or opening in knowledge, perception, or understanding, where more information or insight is needed to fully comprehend a situation or concept.

    Overall, ajar refers to the intermediate state between fully closed and fully open, embodying the concept of partial accessibility, limited exposure, or unresolved circumstances.

  2. • A little opened.
    • Applied to the state of a door slightly open, when it is capable of producing the jarring sound.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for AJAR *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for AJAR

Etymology of AJAR

The word "ajar" originated from Middle English, blending the elements of two separate words: "on char" or "on charr". The term "char" referred to a turn or a twist. Thus, "ajar" was used to describe something partially opened or turned slightly. Over time, the pronunciation of "on char" transformed into "ajar", and it became an adjective in the 18th century to describe a slightly open door or window.

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