1. a device placed over an animal’s mouth to prevent biting or eating
2. something that restrains or silences
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The veterinarian used a muzzler on the aggressive dog during the examination.
• The new regulations acted as a muzzler on free speech.
• She put a muzzler on her horse to prevent it from eating grass during the ride.
• The censorship laws served as an effective muzzler for journalists.
• The trainer recommended a soft muzzler for the puppy’s safety.
• Critics called the new policy a muzzler of academic freedom.