jumpier; jumpiest
1
2
: characterized by jumps or sudden variations
jumpiness noun

Examples of jumpy in a Sentence

trying to calm jumpy passengers flight attendants had to calm jumpy passengers after the plane hit unexpected turbulence
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Blyth plays Cal, a jumpy and cocksure construction manager who is very much the third wheel — or more like the monkey wrench — in the recent couple formed by Leonie and the considerably older Horn. Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2025 That the style of Beto’s documentary is so jumpy didn’t help, either, however clever the idea of making his film an episode unto itself. Keith Phipps, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2025 But when things start to get jumpy, emotions can take over, driving investors to make rash decisions, such as panic-selling stocks during a sharply down market. Ryan Ermey, CNBC, 21 Aug. 2025 That’s in case Pakula’s jumpy directing and hushed performances by Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland aren’t clear enough. David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 20 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for jumpy

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of jumpy was in 1869

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Cite this Entry

“Jumpy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jumpy. Accessed 13 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

jumpy

adjective
jumpier; jumpiest
: nervous sense 2a, jittery
after a long restless night, the soldiers were jumpy
jumpiness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on jumpy

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