jerky

¹

[ jur-kee ]

adjective

, jerk·i·er, jerk·i·est.

1. characterized by jerks or sudden starts; spasmodic.
2. Slang. silly; foolish; stupid; ridiculous.

jerky

²

[ jur-kee ]

noun

1. meat, especially beef, that has been cut in strips and preserved by drying in the sun; jerked meat.

jerky

¹

/ ˈdʒɜːkɪ /

adjective

1. characterized by jerks; spasmodic

jerky

²

/ ˈdʒɜːkɪ /

noun

1. another word for jerk 2

Derived Forms

• ˈjerkiness, noun
• ˈjerkily, adverb

Other Words From

• jerki·ly adverb
• jerki·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of jerky¹

First recorded in 1855–60; jerk ¹ + -y ¹

Origin of jerky²

1840–50, Americanism; alteration of charqui

Example Sentences

“There’s no jerky motions or throwing of weights. And it can increase your circulation — you get greater blood flow while activating your muscles. So you’re adding a cardiovascular benefit for something that’s typically anaerobic.”

From Los Angeles Times

Their differences play out against a backdrop of jerky, sensual rhythms and dark emotions.

From Los Angeles Times

Some good options include Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, jerky, canned fish, eggs, and nuts.

From Salon

I am the proud owner of a four-generation beef jerky company that has called Los Angeles home for nearly 100 years.

From Los Angeles Times

Balsamico said she's come to love plant-based jerky, faux steak cutlets from the brand Meati, and a more old-school product called textured vegetable protein: defatted soy flour pellets that mimic ground beef.

From Salon

Related Words

• bouncy
• bumpy