Jaywalked: meaning, definitions and examples

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jaywalked

 

[ ˈdʒeɪˌwɔkt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

traffic violation

To jaywalk means to cross a street or road illegally or recklessly, often by ignoring traffic signals or pedestrian crosswalks. It is considered a traffic violation in many places and can lead to fines or accidents.

Synonyms

cross illegally, disregard traffic rules, walk carelessly

Examples of usage

  • Many people jaywalk across busy streets.
  • He was ticketed for jaywalking near the intersection.
  • The child jaywalked in front of the moving cars.
  • She always jaywalks despite the signs.

Translations

Translations of the word "jaywalked" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atravessar fora da faixa

🇮🇳 गलती से सड़क पार करना

🇩🇪 falsch überqueren

🇮🇩 menyeberang sembarangan

🇺🇦 перебігати дорогу в неналежному місці

🇵🇱 przechodzić w niedozwolonym miejscu

🇯🇵 信号無視して横断する

🇫🇷 traverser en dehors des passages pour piétons

🇪🇸 cruzar imprudentemente

🇹🇷 kural dışı geçiş yapmak

🇰🇷 신호를 무시하고 길을 건너다

🇸🇦 عبور بشكل غير قانوني

🇨🇿 přejít mimo přechod

🇸🇰 prechádzať mimo priechodu

🇨🇳 违规过马路

🇸🇮 prečkati na neustreznem mestu

🇮🇸 krossa á ólöglegum stað

🇰🇿 заңсыз жолды кесіп өту

🇬🇪 არალეგალურად გადაკვეთა

🇦🇿 qayda pozaraq keçmək

🇲🇽 cruzar imprudentemente

Etymology

The term 'jaywalk' originated in the early 20th century in the United States, around 1917. The word 'jay' referred to a person who was perceived as being unsophisticated or foolish. In this context, 'jaywalking' denoted the behavior of a pedestrian who crossed the street carelessly or without regard for traffic laws, appearing oblivious to the dangers of traffic. This was especially relevant during a time when automobiles were becoming more popular, and the need for regulations to protect both drivers and pedestrians was growing. 'Jaywalking' soon became a term used in law enforcement to describe irresponsible pedestrian behavior, particularly in urban areas. The practice of jaywalking is often associated with a lack of awareness and a casual disregard for road safety, reflecting societal attitudes towards traffic violations.