Jack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🃏
Add to dictionary

jack

[dʒÃĶk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

playing card game

A game played with a set of small objects that are thrown, caught, juggled, or otherwise manipulated.

Synonyms

card game, game, playing card game.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
jack

Used in card games to refer to the playing card with a value between 10 and queen. Also, can refer to a device for lifting heavy objects.

  • He drew a jack of spades from the deck.
  • They used a car jack to change the tire.
game

A broad term used to refer to any activity or sport where players follow rules and compete against each other.

  • They started a game of chess in the evening.
playing card game

Specifically refers to games that are played using a deck of cards, emphasizing the playing aspect.

  • On weekends, they like to play a playing card game with friends.
card game

Refers to any game that is played with a deck of cards, often for entertainment or gambling.

  • Poker is a popular card game at casinos.

Examples of usage

  • Let's play a game of jack.
  • She won the game with a jack in her hand.
Context #2 | Noun

mechanical device

A mechanical device used for lifting heavy objects.

Synonyms

lifting device, mechanical lifter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
jack

This word can also refer to a card in a standard deck of playing cards, typically one that depicts a young man.

  • I got a jack and a queen; do I win?
  • He laid down a jack of spades in the last round.
lifting device

Used in technical or formal documentation to describe machinery or tools designed to lift heavy objects.

  • The lifting device must be inspected annually to ensure safety compliance.
  • A lifting device can significantly reduce the physical strain on workers in a warehouse.
mechanical lifter

Often used in industrial or engineering contexts to discuss specific types of machinery that utilize mechanical means to lift objects.

  • This mechanical lifter can handle loads up to 5 tons.
  • Make sure the mechanical lifter is properly maintained to avoid breakdowns.

Examples of usage

  • The crane used a jack to lift the car.
  • He used a jack to change the tire.
Context #3 | Noun

male name

A common short form of the name John.

Synonyms

John, Johnny.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
jack

Commonly used as a male first name. Suitable in formal and informal situations to refer to a person named Jack.

  • Jack is presenting his project today.
  • I had lunch with Jack yesterday.
John

A formal male first name. Often used in formal contexts or when referring to someone officially or in writing.

  • Dr. John Smith will be our guest speaker.
  • John submitted his application on time.
Johnny

An affectionate or informal version of the name John or Jack. Often used in casual settings, among friends, or family.

  • Hey, Johnny! How was your weekend?
  • Little Johnny loves to play with his toys.

Examples of usage

  • His name is Jack.
  • Jack is a popular name for boys.
Context #4 | Verb

increase

To increase the amount or intensity of something.

Synonyms

elevate, increase, raise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
jack

This is a repetition of the word 'jack' with the same contexts as mentioned above.

  • He used a jack to lift the car and change the tire.
  • Someone tried to jack my phone while I was on the subway.
increase

Typically used to denote a growth in quantity, size, or degree. It is commonly used in various fields such as finance, statistics, and general conversation.

  • They decided to increase the budget for the upcoming project.
  • The population of the city has continued to increase over the years.
raise

Used to denote lifting something to a higher position or elevating a situation, status, or level. Can also mean to collect or gather (e.g., money).

  • Please raise your hand if you have any questions.
  • They plan to raise funds for the new community center.
elevate

Often used in a formal or figurative context to describe raising something to a higher level, status, or position. Can also refer to physical elevation.

  • The purpose of the charity event is to elevate awareness about homelessness.
  • Elevate your legs to reduce swelling.

Examples of usage

  • He decided to jack up the price.
  • They jacked up the volume of the music.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • 'Jack and Jill' is a popular nursery rhyme that tells the story of two children going up a hill, reflecting childhood adventures.
  • The character Jack Sparrow from the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' series made 'jack' synonymous with boldness and adventure.
  • Jack Frost, a character in folklore, represents winter and is often depicted as a mischievous spirit who brings frost.

Technology

  • In technology, 'jack' refers to a socket for connecting devices, like headphones or electrical equipment.
  • The term 'jack' is also used in relation to tools, such as a car jack, which lifts vehicles for maintenance.
  • The video game 'Jackbox Party' utilizes the concept of fun games and social interaction, showcasing modern use in entertainment.

Literature

  • The character Jack in 'Jack and the Beanstalk' embodies the archetype of the adventurous youth who seeks fortune beyond his means.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, often characters named 'Jack' represent the everyman, contributing to the theme of commonality versus nobility.
  • Jack London, a famous author, is known for his adventurous stories like 'The Call of the Wild', illustrating humanity's connection to nature.

Psychology

  • The expression 'jack of all trades' refers to someone skilled in many areas, reflecting versatility in personality and skills.
  • The iconic figure of 'Jack' can evoke childhood memories and emotions, linking to nostalgia and play.
  • In competitive contexts, a 'jack' can represent a strategy that involves cleverness and adaptability in problem-solving.

Origin of 'jack'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originated from Middle English 'Jakke', a common name for a man or boy, often associated with simple or rustic characters.
  • In the 14th century, 'jack' was used as a term for various devices, hinting at its versatile applications in language.
  • Linking to royalty, the jack in a deck of cards historically represented a young servant or soldier.

The word 'jack' has a long history dating back to Middle English, where it originally referred to a common man or a peasant. Over time, it evolved to have various meanings, including a mechanical device for lifting heavy objects and a playing card game. The name 'Jack' is also a common male name, often used as a short form of 'John'. The verb form of 'jack' is used to describe the action of increasing the amount or intensity of something. Overall, 'jack' is a versatile word with multiple meanings and uses.


See also: jacket, jackpot.