# jugular

/ˈdʒuɡjəɫɝ/ (US) · /dʒˈuːɡjʊlɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/jugular
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a large vein in your neck that carries blood back to your heart. It is a very important part of the body, and people often use it in jokes or stories about danger.

For teachers: a large vein in the neck that carries deoxygenated blood from the head and neck to the heart. Often used in a metaphorical or humorous context to refer to the neck or throat.

## Examples

- He felt a pulse in his jugular.
- The doctor checked the patient's jugular vein to see if there was any swelling or irregularity in the blood flow.
- In many horror films, the jugular is depicted as the most vulnerable point on the human body, serving as a dramatic focal point for tension and fear.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.