jerky

views updated Jun 27 2018

jerk·y1 / ˈjərkē/ • adj. (jerk·i·er , jerk·i·est ) 1. characterized by abrupt stops and starts: shallow, jerky, irregular breathing. 2. contemptibly foolish: he makes mischief with his jerky pals.DERIVATIVES: jerk·i·ly / -kəlē/ adv.jerk·i·ness n.jerk·y2 • n. meat that has been cured by being cut into long, thin strips and dried: beef jerky.