1. a sudden, sharp movement or pull
2. a person who behaves in a rude, selfish, or annoying way
Usage: informal

1. to move or pull something with a sudden, sharp motion
2. to move in sudden, uncontrolled motions

Examples

• She gave the rope a sharp jerk to free it from the branch.
• The car came to a stop with a sudden jerk.
• Don’t be such a jerk to your little sister.
• He jerked the door open and stormed out.
• The fish jerked on the line when it took the bait.
• Her head jerked up when she heard the loud noise.
• The old car jerked and sputtered down the road.