Meaning
An unkind or stupid person. It is an informal insult, milder than a swear word but still rude.
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Word origin
From an older sense of jerk, a quick sharp pull. The insult grew in American English around 1930.
- Origin
- English
- Root
- jerk
Grammar
Examples
.
A "jerk" behaves badly towards other people.
.
"A real jerk" makes the insult stronger.
.
You can call yourself a jerk when you know you were wrong.
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English · Free printables
jerk: worksheet, infographic and listicle
Free printable study downloads for the English word "jerk" (An unkind or stupid person. It is an informal insult, milder than a swear word but still rude.): a worksheet with the answer key built in, an infographic, and a sentence listicle. Open any one to view, print or save.
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Start your free weekThis word is taught in chapter 19, lesson 4: jerk, clue, snake and 7 more words.