jerk

Definition

A sudden, often uncontrolled movement, especially of the human body.

Etymology

Probably from Middle English yerk (“sudden motion”) and Middle English yerkid (“tightly pulled”), from Old English ġearc (“ready, active, quick”) and Old English ġearcian (“to prepare, make ready, procure, furnish, supply”). Cognate with Scots yerk (“to jerk”). Related also to English yare (“ready”).

Example Sentences

• "1856, Gustave Flaubert, Madame Bovary, Part III Chapter X, translated by Eleanor Marx-Aveling The black cloth bestrewn with white beads blew up from time to time, laying bare the coffin. The tired bearers walked more slowly, and it advanced with constant jerks, like a boat that pitches with every wave."
• "A barrel-organ in the street suddenly sprang with a jerk into a jovial tune."
• "When I yell "OK," give the mooring line a good jerk!"

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