ajar

adjective or adverb

: slightly open
left the door ajar

Examples of ajar in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Mamdani has left the door ajar to negotiation—and compromise—with business leaders and with Governor Kathy Hochul, a centrist Democrat. Michael Powell, The Atlantic, 1 Jan. 2026 Although on some models there is a door latch switch, that basically tells the car is a door is ajar. John Paul Senior Manager Public Affairs and Traffic Safety Aaa Northeast, Hartford Courant, 1 Jan. 2026 Over the summer, two eagle-eyed seniors, Prince Hayes and Carson Michaels, noticed the plaque was ajar. Elle Meyers, CBS News, 12 Dec. 2025 To prevent odors and buildup, clean the filter regularly, pre-scrape dishes, and keep the door ajar after cycles to allow air-drying. Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 28 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ajar

Word History

Etymology

earlier on char, from Middle English, from on + char turn — more at chare

First Known Use

1559, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ajar was in 1559

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ajar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ajar. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

ajar

adverb or adjective
: slightly open
left the door ajar

More from Merriam-Webster on ajar

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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