Meaning & Definition of word "Jerk"
Jerk
/dʒɜrk/
noun:
- 1. a contemptibly obnoxious person; someone who acts inconsiderately
- Example: I can't believe he said that to her; what a jerk!
- 2. a sudden sharp movement
- Example: The runner felt a jerk in his leg as he strained a muscle.
verb:
- 1. to pull, push, or twist with a sudden motion
- Example: He jerked the door open, surprised to find no one inside.
- 2. to make a sudden movement; to start or stop abruptly
- Example: 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 of jerk
Meaning: An annoying or rude person.
● Example Sentence: Why are you being such a jerk to her?
Meaning: To mess around in a foolish manner.
● Example Sentence: Stop jerking off and focus on your work.
Meaning: A sudden unexpected move.
● Example Sentence: He made a jerk to the left to avoid the obstacle.