Definition

To bend or fold in a way that resembles a folding knife, often resulting in a sharp angle.

Example

The trailer jackknifed, causing a traffic jam on the highway.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the truck accident on the highway?

Yeah, I saw it on the news; it reportedly jackknifed and blocked all lanes.

That must have caused a huge traffic jam!

Definitely, it took hours for them to clear it up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of knife that has a folding blade, often used for various tasks, or a diving move where the diver enters the water in a specific position.

Example

He used his jackknife to cut the rope.

Conversation

Did you see that cool jackknife trick he did at the pool?

Yeah, it was impressive! I wish I could dive like that.

I know, right? A perfect jackknife dive looks so effortless.

Definition

To fold or bend something in a way that resembles the action of a jackknife, often referring to cutting or stabbing with a knife that folds.

Example

He had to jackknife the metal sheet to fit it into the frame.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how he jackknifed that piece of wood?

Yeah, it was impressive! I could never do that.

I think it's all about practice and the right technique.

Root Explanation

Jackknife → The word 'jackknife' is formed from 'jack' (originating from Middle English 'jakke', a diminutive of 'Jack', a common name) and 'knife' (from Old English 'cniif', meaning a cutting instrument). The term originally referred to a folding knife that could be opened with one hand, often associated with the name 'Jack'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'Jack', a common name, and 'knife', a cutting tool, to remember that a 'jackknife' is a type of folding knife associated with the name.

Visually Confused Words