Cheek by jowl meaning

Cheek by jowl definitions

Cheek by Jowl

Cheek by jowl is an English idiom that means situated or pressed closely together, usually in a confined space. The term dates back to the 13th century and has been used in literature and everyday language to describe things that are in close proximity or intimate association with each other.

Origin

The phrase "cheek by jowl" derives from the Middle English word "cheke" meaning "cheek" or "jaw" and the word "jowl" which refers to the jaw or cheek of an animal or human. The expression was commonly used in medieval times to describe things that were closely packed together or in a tight space.

Usage

Today, "cheek by jowl" is used metaphorically to describe relationships, objects, or concepts that are closely linked or in close proximity. It can refer to physical proximity, emotional closeness, or even a sense of entanglement or inextricability between two entities. It is often used to convey a sense of intimacy, partnership, or interconnectedness.

Examples in Literature

Many great writers and poets have used the phrase "cheek by jowl" in their works to evoke a sense of intimacy or closeness. Shakespeare, for example, used it in his play "A Midsummer Night's Dream" when he wrote, "Theseus and Hippolyta, like to the hearts of two bullocks, be two beare."

Modern Usage

In modern language, "cheek by jowl" is often used to describe situations where things are in close proximity or in a tight space. It can also be used metaphorically to describe people or ideas that are closely connected or intertwined. Whether in literature, everyday speech, or academic writing, this idiom continues to be a powerful tool for conveying a sense of closeness and intimacy.

Cheek by jowl Examples

1. The siblings were seated cheek by jowl at the dinner table.
2. The houses in the crowded city were built cheek by jowl.
3. The two rival companies set up their booths cheek by jowl at the trade show.
4. The passengers on the packed bus stood cheek by jowl during rush hour.
5. The competitors lined up cheek by jowl at the starting line.
6. The books on the shelf were stacked cheek by jowl due to limited space.
7. The students worked cheek by jowl on the group project.
8. The trees in the dense forest grew cheek by jowl, creating a thick canopy.
9. The soldiers marched cheek by jowl in formation during the parade.
10. The tents at the music festival were pitched cheek by jowl in the campground.

Most accessed