Jackstraw: meaning, definitions and examples
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jackstraw
[ ˈdʒækˌstrɔː ]
game term
Jackstraw is a game in which players attempt to pick up sticks or straws without disturbing the rest, often played in a casual setting. The objective is to score points by successfully removing pieces from a pile.
Synonyms
pick-up sticks, straw game.
Examples of usage
- We played jackstraw after dinner.
- The kids enjoyed a game of jackstraws at the picnic.
- Jackstraw can be a fun activity for family gatherings.
historical
Historically, 'jackstraw' referred to a model of a man made of straw or a scarecrow used to frighten birds away from crops. It symbolized something made to appear like a person but is actually insubstantial.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The farmer used a jackstraw to protect his fields.
- In old literature, a jackstraw often represented false appearances.
- Children used to play with jackstraws during harvest time.
Translations
Translations of the word "jackstraw" in other languages:
🇵🇹 espantalho
🇮🇳 कंबल
🇩🇪 Scheiterhaufen
🇮🇩 boneka jerami
🇺🇦 солом'яний лялька
🇵🇱 słomiana lalka
🇯🇵 藁人形
🇫🇷 poupée de paille
🇪🇸 muñeca de paja
🇹🇷 saman bebek
🇰🇷 짚인형
🇸🇦 دمية القش
🇨🇿 slámová panenka
🇸🇰 slamená bábika
🇨🇳 稻草人
🇸🇮 slamnata lutka
🇮🇸 heygaldur
🇰🇿 саламды қуыршақ
🇬🇪 ღოღოს თოჯინა
🇦🇿 saman kuklası
🇲🇽 muñeca de paja
Etymology
The term 'jackstraw' dates back to at least the 16th century, deriving from the English 'jack,' a common name often used for a male figure, combined with 'straw,' referring to the dry stalks of cereal plants. This combination makes a 'jackstraw' a fitting descriptor for a figure made of straw, often used in games and as scarecrows. The game involving jackstraws likely developed alongside the agricultural use of straw figures designed to protect crops. Over time, the term has maintained its relevance in both gaming contexts and agricultural practices, showcasing its versatility in the English language. The concept of a jackstraw has been depicted in various forms of literature and art, emphasizing its cultural significance throughout history.