jumper cables

plural noun

: a pair of electrical cables with alligator clips used to make a connection for jump-starting a vehicle

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Here are our picks for the best jumper cables. Collin Morgan, Car and Driver, 12 Apr. 2023 And bring jumper cables! Kelsi Halverson, Los Angeles Times, 13 Jan. 2023 Previous stupidities taught me to always travel with jumper cables and an empty gas can. Petula Dvorak, Washington Post, 20 Mar. 2023 Alas, after 7 days, its owner showed up with his own buddy, and jumper cables. Josh Max, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2023 This kit comes equipped with items like jumper cables, a tow rope, flashlight, gloves, and a survival whistle. Matt Crisara, Popular Mechanics, 7 Feb. 2023 This gives me, in the parking lot the next morn, yet another opportunity to introduce myself to fellow travelers who possess jumper cables. John Phillips, Car and Driver, 9 Jan. 2023 Take blankets, water, jumper cables, a flashlight and a tow rope, in case you get stranded. Dallas News, 11 Mar. 2022 Both batteries come with jumper cables and a USB-C charging cable, in addition to the jump starter itself. Micki Wagner, Popular Mechanics, 4 Jan. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'jumper cables.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jumper cables was circa 1926

Dictionary Entries Near jumper cables

Cite this Entry

“Jumper cables.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jumper%20cables. Accessed 5 Jun. 2023.

More from Merriam-Webster on jumper cables

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!