Jerk
/dʒɜrk/
Meaning & Definition
noun
a contemptibly obnoxious person; someone who acts inconsiderately
I can't believe he said that to her; what a jerk!
a sudden sharp movement
The runner felt a jerk in his leg as he strained a muscle.
verb
to pull, push, or twist with a sudden motion
He jerked the door open, surprised to find no one inside.
to make a sudden movement; to start or stop abruptly
The car jerked forward when the driver stepped on the gas pedal.
Etymology
Middle English 'jerke', possibly from Old Norse 'gerkja' meaning 'to jerk'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
jerk someone around
To treat someone unfairly or dishonestly.
good jerk
A term sometimes used to describe a person who is not genuinely mean.
Related Words
yank
To pull something with a quick and sudden movement.
tug
To pull something with a sharp or sudden movement.
fool
A person who acts unwisely or imprudently.
Slang Meanings
An annoying or rude person.
Why are you being such a jerk to her?
To mess around in a foolish manner.
Stop jerking off and focus on your work.
A sudden unexpected move.
He made a jerk to the left to avoid the obstacle.