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

As the Heat searches for positives amid its rough start to the season, the bench rotation continues to evolve.

— Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 11 Nov. 2026
At the Shore, onshore winds could create rough surf, hazardous boating conditions, and some tidal flooding, although the extent of coastal impacts will depend heavily on the storm's track and how long winds remain onshore.

— Grant Gilmore, CBS News, 10 Nov. 2026

Definition of rough

Adjective

Malkmus teases guitarist Greg Ginn for liking the Grateful Dead now and notes how sweet drummer Bill Stevenson seems for answering a reporter’s silly question so thoughtfully.

— Grayson Haver Currin, Pitchfork, 10 Nov. 2026
Still, beyond those sillier antics, Fantano’s content come with breathless vigor and detailed context and research.

— Ethan Millman, HollywoodReporter, 10 Nov. 2026

Definition of silly

Adjective

But the first half was a choppy affair because of all the fouls being called.

— Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2026
With its choppy layers, tousled texture, and extra length at the nape, this wolf cut brought a rebellious twist to her usual regal aesthetic.

— Amanda Le, InStyle, 4 Nov. 2026