Jackknife Meaning in English
word
Definition
A jackknife is a folding knife with a blade that tucks into the handle. It can also mean to bend sharply at the waist, as in diving, or when a vehicle (like a truck and trailer) folds sharply in an accident.
Usage & Nuances
As a noun, 'jackknife' is mainly the folding pocketknife. As a verb, 'to jackknife' often describes trucks or trailers folding in accidents. In sports, a 'jackknife dive' is a specific dive shape. Rare in everyday conversation except for knives or truck accidents.
Example Sentences
He always carries a jackknife in his pocket.
basic
The diver did a perfect jackknife off the board.
basic
The truck began to jackknife on the icy road.
basic
My dad showed me how his old jackknife works.
natural
Did you see the truck jackknife on the highway this morning?
natural
He nailed the jackknife in practice today — the coach was impressed.
natural