jimmy - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

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jimmy

|jim/my|

/ˈdʒɪmi/

tool for prying

Etymology

Etymology Information

'jimmy' originates from the English language, specifically as a diminutive form of the name 'James', where 'jimmy' was used colloquially to refer to a tool.

Historical Evolution

'jimmy' changed from a colloquial term for a person named James to a term for a burglar's tool in the 19th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to a person named James, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a burglar's tool.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a short crowbar used by a burglar to force open a window or door.

The burglar used a jimmy to break into the house.

Synonyms

crowbarpry bar

Verb 1

to force open (a window or door) with a jimmy.

He jimmied the lock to get inside.

Synonyms

Examples

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42