jiffy

[ jif-ee ]

noun

, Informal.

, plural jif·fies.

1. a very short time; moment:

   to get dressed in a jiffy.

   Synonyms: trice, second, flash, instant

jiffy

/ ˈdʒɪfɪ; dʒɪf /

noun

1. informal.
   a very short time

   wait a jiffy

Word History and Origins

Origin of jiffy¹

First recorded in 1770–80; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of jiffy¹

C18: of unknown origin

Idioms and Phrases

see under in a flash .

Example Sentences

Freeman and Brailsford maintained the bag contained legal flu medication, and ultimately a parliamentary committee said it was unable to determine what was inside the jiffy bag.

From BBC

They cool in a jiffy and are ready to serve almost as fast as you make them.

From Salon

In another jiffy, he and his master, sky high, are toasting one another and the success of their venture.

From Los Angeles Times

“Don’t worry. If your lady friend plays nice, you’ll be back here in a jiffy.”

From Literature

However, a quantum computer would be able to factor the huge number much faster than an ordinary computer, enabling Eve to unscramble the message in a jiffy, too.

From Science Magazine