jack-in-the-box

Definition

Children’s toy consisting of a small box from which a male figure pops out unexpectedly after some turnings of a crank.

Example Sentences

• ""Did you venture to call me a liar?" ("No, sir, no!" shouted the accused, and disappeared like a Jack-in-the-box.)"
• "“There’s this terrible business to start with. Scotland Yard men in and out of the house like a jack-in-the-box! Never know where they won’t turn up next.”"
• "Normally, you ring a bell and you have at least a half-minute wait before the door opens. But this person was like a jack-in-the-box. He pressed the bell—and out she popped! It made him jump."