JERKY Synonyms: 160 Similar and Opposite Words

jerky

adjective

ˈjər-kē

Definition of jerky

as in rough

marked by a series of sharp quick motions made jerky progress walking with the new crutches

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in stupid

showing or marked by a lack of good sense or judgment he's acting jerky just to get people's attention

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of jerky And when the driver knows how to accelerate, lane-change and brake smoothly, without any jerky movements or pitching—like our driver, then the transfer is that much more pleasant. — Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 12 Apr. 2026 Charlie, Rachel and Mike’s confessions range between youthfully jerky to downright repugnant. — Brian Truitt, USA Today, 31 Mar. 2026 The jerky company Slim Jim has commented on many Fruit Love Island videos. — Kat Tenbarge, Wired News, 25 Mar. 2026 Mid-level roles included a deli/food service associate responsible for preparing Buc-ee's signature barbecue, baked goods, jerky, fudge and sandwiches, and a store bookkeeper managing daily accounting and cash reconciliation. — Rey Covarrubias Jr, AZCentral.com, 13 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for jerky

Recent Examples of Synonyms for jerky

Adjective

Even a rough one shortens the negotiation and produces a fairer number for both sides.

— Chris Ryan, Forbes.com, 30 July 2026
The men were diving a reef off Duck Key, in the Middle Keys, when they became separated from their boat amid rough waters, FWC spokeswoman Arielle Callender said.

— David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 30 July 2026

Definition of rough

Adjective

Mynatt says that tamping too lightly, unevenly, or inconsistently leads to uneven water flow (called channeling).

— Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Aug. 2026
That was to avoid both leagues having 15 apiece and with uneven teams every day on the schedule having one team idle.

— Chuck Murr, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of uneven

Adjective

Doing it for a guy who was closer to average last year and got outplayed by his backup is probably downright foolish.

— Dom Luszczyszyn, New York Times, 22 July 2026
Johnson continued this week to push for his foolish and counterproductive desire to impose a $33-per-month tax on each Chicago job generated by the city’s largest private-sector employers.

— The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 10 July 2026