choker

noun

chok·​er ˈchō-kər How to pronounce choker (audio)
1
: one that chokes
2
: something (such as a collar or necklace) worn closely about the throat or neck

Examples of choker in a Sentence

They called him a choker when he missed the shot that would have won the game. a pearl choker closely wrapped around her throat
Recent Examples on the Web Necklaces sometimes tend to take a backseat to chandelier earrings or a statement cocktail ring on red carpets these days, but not this year, as chokers, pendants and sautoirs ruled the parade of gems at the 96th Academy Awards. Laurie Brookins, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Mar. 2024 America Ferrera’s was radiant in De Beers 18K white gold Metamorphosis ‘Autumn’ diamond open choker necklace at the 2024 SAG Awards. Beth Bernstein, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024 Not kind of a choker, or choker adjacent, but a flat-out choker. Mike Freeman, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2024 Her tomb contained magnificent pieces including a headdress of gold leaves, necklaces, chokers, earrings, and ten rings, amongst many more examples crafted from precious metals and stones. Sean Mowbray, Discover Magazine, 12 Mar. 2024 The ensemble was topped off with pieces from the maison’s High Jewelry collection, including stud earrings, rings, and a stunning white diamond choker with a massive yellow stone at the center. Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 11 Mar. 2024 The 48-year-old actress and Oscar winner graced the red carpet at the Dolby Theatre dressed to perfection in Dior Haute Couture and tons of Boucheron jewels, including rings, bracelets, chokers and earrings. Jordan Greene, Peoplemag, 11 Mar. 2024 In their stead, bring a small selection of more affordable, fun accessories — like these chunky gold teardrop earrings and turquoise studs, or this simple, elegant choker necklace set. Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 6 Mar. 2024 Some of our colleagues scoff at the idea of such a recent trend making its return, while others are ready to break out their chokers and knee socks. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'choker.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1552, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of choker was circa 1552

Dictionary Entries Near choker

Cite this Entry

“Choker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/choker. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

choker

noun
chok·​er ˈchō-kər How to pronounce choker (audio)
1
: one that chokes
2
: something (as a necklace) that fits closely around the neck

More from Merriam-Webster on choker

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!