1. the nose and mouth of an animal, especially a dog or horse
2. a guard or covering for an animal’s mouth to prevent biting or eating
3. the open end of a gun barrel from which the bullet emerges

1. to put a muzzle on an animal
2. to prevent someone from expressing their opinions freely

Examples

• The dog’s wet muzzle touched my hand.
• The veterinarian put a muzzle on the aggressive dog.
• The soldier cleaned the muzzle of his rifle.
• They had to muzzle the dog before the examination.
• The government tried to muzzle the press.
• Smoke came from the gun’s muzzle after firing.
• The horse’s soft muzzle nuzzled against her shoulder.
• Critics accused the company of trying to muzzle whistleblowers.