jaywalk

[ jey-wawk ]

verb (used without object)

1. to cross a street at a place other than a regular crossing or in a heedless manner, as diagonally or against a traffic light.

jaywalk

/ ˈdʒeɪˌwɔːk /

verb

1. intr to cross or walk in a street recklessly or illegally

Derived Forms

• ˈjayˌwalking, noun
• ˈjayˌwalker, noun

Other Words From

• jaywalker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of jaywalk¹

An Americanism dating back to 1915–20; jay ¹ + walk

Word History and Origins

Origin of jaywalk¹

C20: from jay (sense 2)

Example Sentences

“In 2018, they began using surveillance cameras to fine people for jaywalking and the system could identify your face and send the fine directly to your address.”

From BBC

Beachgoers who parked in neighborhoods jaywalked through a sea of cars across the highway to the sand.

From Los Angeles Times

Most members and employees opt to park on the side of the club instead of trying to jaywalk across the street.

From Los Angeles Times

Banks wouldn’t lend, police used crimes such as jaywalking to arrest, schools failed to teach.

From Los Angeles Times

Bartlett in 2019, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.’s majority opinion recognized a narrow exception, using the example of jaywalking.

From New York Times