What does jerk mean Meaning and Definition
What does jerk mean
Pronunciation
/dʒɜːrk mɪn/
Part of Speech
Idiom
Definition
A person who is annoying or irritating due to their thoughtless or inconsiderate behavior.
Examples
- He can be such a jerk when he’s drinking.
- She was a jerk for cancelling plans at the last minute.
Synonyms
- Buffoon
- Clod
Antonyms
- Gentleman
- Sensible
Etymology
The word “jerk” originates from the early 16th-century word “jirk,” meaning a sudden or abrupt movement. Over time, the term evolved to describe someone who is abrupt or unthoughtful.
Usage Notes
The term “jerk” is often used informally to describe someone who is behaving in a thoughtless or annoying way. However, it is generally considered impolite to use the term to describe someone in formal or professional settings.
Cultural References
The term “jerk” has been used in various forms of media, including films, television shows, and music. In the 1994 film “PCU,” the character played by Jeremy Piven is described as a “jerk” by his roommate.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- a jerk-off
- jerk someone around
Related Words or Phrases
- Bully
- Dimwit
Collocations
- a jerk cop
- a jerk husband
Frequency of Use
The term “jerk” is commonly used in informal conversation, especially among friends and in online communities. However, its frequency of use has decreased in recent years as more people seek to avoid using offensive language.
Common Misspellings
- jerck
- jerikk