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jostle

Jostle (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/ˈdʒɒsl/

What does jostle mean?

To push or elbow someone or something in a rough or aggressive manner, often in a crowded or busy place.
"The kids jostle to get to the front of the line at the ice cream truck."

Detailed Meaning of Jostle

It can also mean to compete or struggle with others in order to achieve a goal or gain an advantage. For example, people jostling for a place in a line, or a group of politicians jostling for power in a government. In general, jostling implies a sense of pushing, shoving, or jockeying for position, often in a chaotic or disorganized way. The word can also be used to describe the act of moving roughly or clumsily, like jostling a fragile item. Overall, jostle refers to physical or metaphorical pushing, shoving, or jockeying for position in a rough or aggressive manner.

Example Sentences for Jostle

1. You have to jostle your way through the bustling morning market in Marrakech.
2. When the concert ended, thousands of fans began to jostle towards the exit.
3. At rush hour, commuters jostle on the train to secure a seat.
4. The spectators jostle for a better view as the parade marches down the street.
5. The puppies playfully jostle for their mother's attention.
6. Holiday shoppers jostle each other in the crowded mall to secure the best deals.

Origin and Etymology of Jostle

The verb 'jostle' has its etymological origins in Old English and Middle English. It is derived from the Old English word 'justlian,' which meant 'to contend' or 'to strive.' In Middle English, it evolved into 'jostelen,' retaining its sense of physical competition or contest. Over time, 'jostle' came to represent the act of pushing or elbowing someone or something in a rough or aggressive manner, often in a crowded or busy place. The etymology of 'jostle' reflects its historical connection to physical competition and striving, emphasizing the forceful and competitive nature of the actions it describes, particularly in situations where space or resources are limited.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb jostle:

steady

shove

stabilize

leave alone

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Jostle

1. In the savannah, young elephants jostle with each other to establish dominance.
2. The boys jostle over the last piece of pizza at their sleepover.
3. She had to jostle her way through the throng of people at the festival.
4. The fans jostle around the celebrity, each hoping for an autograph.
5. The reporters jostle to ask the politician their pressing questions.
6. Tourists jostle to capture a picture of the stunning sunset on their smartphones.
7. Kids in the park jostle for a turn on the swing set.
8. The travelers jostle to claim their luggage at the crowded airport carousel.
9. The excited children jostle to see Santa Claus at the town's Christmas event.
10. Late for work, he jostle his way through the bustling city streets.
11. We had to jostle against the strong crowd to reach the exit of the concert.
12. In the heated debate, the politicians jostle to get their points across.
13. The birds jostle at the feeder, each vying for the best seeds.
14. In the bustling market, shoppers jostled to get the best deals.
15. Commuters often jostle for space during rush hour on the subway.
16. Fans eagerly jostled to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrity.
17. The crowded concert venue had people jostling for a good view.
18. Passengers on the crowded bus had to jostle for standing room.
19. At the sports stadium, spectators jostled for the best seats.
20. Protesters and police jostled during the heated demonstration.
21. In the airport, travelers jostled to board the plane on time.
22. Shoppers jostle for limited items during Black Friday sales.
23. The children playfully jostled each other on the playground.
24. Crowds jostled around the entrance to the amusement park.