Definition

1. Noun:
   • A toy consisting of a box containing a figure on a spring that pops out when the lid is opened: A "jack-in-the-box" is a traditional children's plaything. It is a box with a crank. When the crank is turned, music plays, and then a surprise figure, often a clown, springs out suddenly when the lid opens.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The child screamed with delight when the jack-in-the-box popped up.
  • She turned the handle of the old jack-in-the-box, waiting for the clown to appear.

Advanced Usage

• Metaphorical Use: The term can be used metaphorically to describe a person or thing that appears or acts suddenly and surprisingly.
  • The new competitor in the market was a real jack-in-the-box, surprising everyone with their rapid growth.

Variants and Related Words

• Jack-in-the-boxes (n): The standard plural form.
  • The store sold many different jack-in-the-boxes.

Synonyms

• Pop-up toy: A descriptive synonym emphasizing the action.
• Surprise box: A general term for a box containing a surprising element.

Related Idioms

• Like a jack-in-the-box: Used to describe someone or something that moves or appears very quickly and suddenly.
  • He popped up from behind the desk like a jack-in-the-box.

Noun

1. plaything consisting of a toy clown that jumps out of a box when the lid is opened