online vocabulary.com

Herky - jerky-Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Herky is a colloquial term meaning erratic or jerky in movement. It often describes actions that are irregular, unpredictable, or lacking smoothness, such as a herky-jerky dance or ride.

herky

/ˈhɜrki/ /ˈhɜːki/

Definition:

Jerky or erratic in movement; characterized by sudden starts and stops.

Synonyms:

jerky, spasmodic, erratic, twitchy

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

smooth, fluid, steady

Common Collocations:

herky-jerky motion, herky movements, herky dance

Derivatives:

herkily, herkiness

Usage Tips:

Use "herky" to describe abrupt, irregular motions, often in a playful or informal context.

Common Phrases:

herky-jerky ride, herky-jerky motion, moving in a herky way

Etymology:

Likely imitative in origin, mimicking abrupt or jerking movements; possibly a variant of "jerky."

Examples:

  • 1. The car's herky motion made the passengers uneasy.
  • 2. His herky dance moves amused everyone at the party.
  • 3. The old elevator moved in a herky manner between floors.
  • 4. She disliked the herky-jerky rhythm of the shaky video.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS