Jimmy

As a verb, 'jimmy' (often spelled 'jimmy' or 'jimmied') describes the act of forcing something open or apart using a lever, usually a tool like a crowbar or a similar instrument. It implies unauthorized or forceful entry, often with the intent of gaining access to a locked space or object. As a noun (less common), 'jimmy' can refer to such a levering tool, typically used by burglars or those engaged in illicit activities. The action typically involves prying, forcing, or maneuvering an object away from its anchored position. The word carries connotations of illegality and intrusion.

Jimmy meaning with examples

• The thief tried to jimmy the lock on the back door with a screwdriver, hoping to gain entry undetected. He worked for several minutes, the metal scraping against the door frame, but the reinforced lock held firm. Eventually, frustrated, he gave up. He then left and quickly turned his eyes to another house hoping that he would have better luck.
• During the investigation, the detectives discovered that the perpetrator had **jimmied** the window of the store to gain access. They found scrape marks on the frame and broken glass around the sill, suggesting forceful entry. The evidence pointed to a clear case of breaking and entering, as the suspect tried to break in by force.
• The old shed had been vandalized; someone had clearly tried to jimmy the padlock, bending the metal severely. The owner, upon finding the damage, reported the attempted break-in to the police. Fortunately, nothing was stolen, but the cost of the damage from the jimmy attempts was a problem for the owner.
• The construction crew needed to jimmy the stubborn concrete form to remove it. After a long day of construction, they found that the wooden framework had become tightly embedded, a large wrench was needed to loosen the hold of the concrete and the frame.