nozzle

noun

noz·​zle ˈnä-zəl 

1

a

: a projecting vent of something

b

: a short tube with a taper or constriction used (as on a hose) to speed up or direct a flow of fluid

c

: a part in a rocket engine that accelerates the exhaust gases from the combustion chamber to a high velocity

2

slang : nose

Synonyms

• beak
• conk [chiefly British slang]
• honker [slang]
• neb
• nose
• proboscis
• schnoz [slang]
• schnozz
• schnozzle [slang]
• smeller
• snoot
• snout

Examples of nozzle in a Sentence

in this classic film noir, a private eye gets his nozzle sliced when he starts poking it into places where it's not welcome

Recent Examples on the Web

On the second flight, the nozzle fell off one of Vulcan's solid rocket boosters shortly after liftoff, but the rocket successfully continued its climb into orbit. —Ars Technica, 20 Dec. 2024

This hair dryer automatically lowers its temperature as the nozzle draws closer to your scalp, protecting it from heat damage. —Adam Mansuroglu, WWD, 8 Dec. 2024

Measure the nozzle’s diameter and check the diffuser's packaging or product description for compatible sizes. —Erin Parker, Allure, 4 Dec. 2024

Cleaning the showerhead can also cut back on grime buildup, helping to prevent the nozzle from getting clogged. 6. —Alyssa Shaffer, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

diminutive of nose

First Known Use

1683, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

nozzle

noun

noz·​zle ˈnäz-əl 

: a short tube that narrows in the middle or toward one end and is often used (as on a hose or pipe) to direct or speed up a flow of fluid