Jostled

The past tense and past participle of the verb 'jostle'. To jostle means to push, elbow, or bump against someone or something roughly, typically in a crowd. It implies a lack of intention to cause harm, but it may still result in a loss of balance or position for the person or object being jostled. The act often occurs in crowded or confined spaces where individuals are in close proximity and navigating through a space or vying for position. Jostling can be a momentary, unintentional action, a recurring part of a situation, or a more sustained, aggressive form of interaction. It describes the act of pushing or bumping while struggling or competing for something. The action typically involves an action and interaction with another, which usually occurs due to overcrowding.

Jostled meaning with examples

• During the Black Friday sale, shoppers jostled each other frantically, desperate to reach the discounted televisions. The air was thick with tension and competitive energy as people fought to grab the best deals and get to the front of the line. Many shoppers had been waiting for hours for the store to open. Elbows flew, and bags were swung, illustrating the intensity of the scene. This created an almost chaotic environment.
• As the train arrived, passengers jostled to get on, a flurry of movement in the narrow doorway. People bumped shoulders and stepped on each other's feet, eager to find a seat before the train departed. The struggle was intense, creating a chorus of impatient sighs and muttered apologies. Those attempting to get off the train also found themselves in a tough position, being pushed by the crowds attempting to board.
• The reporters jostled for position near the podium, their cameras and microphones creating a chaotic scene. Each journalist tried to get a better angle or a clearer sound byte, eager to report the news first. There was a lot of frantic energy as the reporters were trying to capture a moment of history with the potential of a big scoop. Many of the reporters also tried to ask questions, further crowding the space around the speaker.
• The two teams jostled fiercely for the ball during the soccer match, pushing and shoving as they tried to gain possession. This constant contact and the battle for control created an atmosphere of dynamic tension. The game's intensity increased each minute, with the physical exchange between the players constantly increasing. This often led to complaints and warnings from the officials.