The Forgotten Meaning of "Jerk."
4 days ago
- #linguistics
- #slang
- #semantic-shift
- The word 'jerk' has undergone a semantic shift from meaning 'stupid' or 'inept' to 'obnoxious' or 'objectionable'.
- Historical references and dictionaries like the OED and Green’s Dictionary of Slang document this change, with 'jerk' originally meaning 'a fool' and now meaning 'an obnoxious person'.
- Examples from pop culture, such as Steve Martin's 'The Jerk' and Dave Barry's writings, illustrate the transition in usage over time.
- Many people, including baby boomers, have forgotten or overwritten the older meaning of 'jerk' as 'stupid', leading to confusion and surprise when encountering older usages.
- The shift in meaning is compared to similar changes in other terms of abuse, such as 'slob' and 'schmuck', highlighting a broader linguistic phenomenon.
- The discussion includes etymological theories and cultural references, such as 'soda jerk', to explore the origins and evolution of the word.