Jerky

Jerky, primarily used as an adjective, describes something characterized by sudden, abrupt, and often erratic movements or actions. This can apply to physical motions, speech patterns, or even the style of a piece of writing. It suggests a lack of smoothness, grace, or consistency. The term often implies a sense of awkwardness or instability. Jerky can also refer to a type of dried, cured meat, but in this definition, the focus is on its descriptive use regarding movement and behavior. It's about an irregular rhythm or flow. Its opposite is a calm, controlled action.

Jerky meaning with examples

• The old car's engine gave a Jerky start, sputtering and shaking before finally roaring to life. Its Jerky movements foreshadowed a day of mechanical troubles for the vehicle. We cautiously headed on our journey. I hoped we would get there. The drive was full of unpredictable moments.
• His Jerky response to her question made her suspect he was hiding something. His awkwardness signaled that he was not being entirely truthful. She pressed further to get him to open up but failed. He continued with his Jerky style.
• The puppeteer's Jerky movements made the puppet appear lifeless and unnatural. The motions failed to give the puppet some sense of life. The Jerky performance did not help to give the puppet a real life. The audience was dissatisfied.
• The film's editing had a Jerky feel, with abrupt cuts and jarring transitions that disrupted the flow of the story. The editing could of been smoother to make it seem more normal. It would of been an interesting movie, otherwise the story would be lost. The film had very Jerky style.
• After the accident, his arm moved in a Jerky way, a lingering consequence of his injury. The physical trauma meant he would now live with the Jerky arm. The doctor told him it would be an inconvenience for his lifetime. Hopefully it was a minor issue.