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Jibing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jibing

[ˈdʒaɪbɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sailing maneuver

Jibing refers to a sailing maneuver where a sailboat changes direction by turning its stern through the wind. This action allows the sail to shift from one side of the boat to the other, catching the wind in the opposite direction. Jibing is commonly used when sailing downwind and requires careful timing to avoid capsizing or losing control. It is essential for sailors to understand this maneuver to navigate effectively during a race or in open water.

Synonyms

change course, shift, turn.

Examples of usage

  • The crew executed a perfect jibe to catch the wind.
  • We had to jibe quickly to maintain our speed.
  • After jibing, we noticed a significant increase in our boat's speed.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Comedians often use jibes to deliver punchlines while still being playful with their audience, creating a shared laughter.
  • Reality TV shows frequently feature contestants jibing at each other to build drama and reveal character dynamics.
  • On social media, jibing is common in witty memes or comment sections where users poke fun at each other in good spirits.

Social Dynamics

  • Jibing can strengthen social bonds, as shared humor often leads to deeper connections among friends.
  • The art of jibing relies on mutual understanding; context and tone are crucial for it to be received positively.
  • It’s important to be aware of boundaries, as jibing can sometimes be interpreted as teasing in negative contexts.

Literature

  • Dramatic works often feature characters engaging in jibes, highlighting wit and the complexities of their relationships.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters often jibe with clever wordplay to showcase intelligence and social commentary.
  • Modern literature continues to explore the theme of conceptual jibes as a means of satire or criticism of societal norms.

Psychology

  • Jibing can serve as a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to handle stress or uncomfortable situations through humor.
  • Psychological studies suggest that friendly teasing or jibing can enhance group dynamics and create a positive environment.
  • Understanding the balance of fun and offense in jibing involves emotional intelligence and awareness of others’ feelings.

Origin of 'jibing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'jibe' comes from the nautical term 'jib,' refers to adjusting sails, and evolved to mean agreement in conversations.
  • In the early 1900s, 'jibing' started being used in American English to describe back-and-forth verbal exchanges.
  • The variant spelling 'gibe' is also used, but 'jibe' has become more popular in modern usage.

The term 'jibe' originates from the late 19th century, derived from the sailing terminology used by mariners. It is thought to be a variation of the word 'gybe', which itself is traced back to the Middle Dutch word 'gijpen', meaning to swing. The concept of jibing has been essential in navigation practices, as it allows sailors to adapt to changing winds while maintaining their course. Over the years, the word has evolved, and its usage has expanded beyond sailing to suggest a shift in opinion or tactic, especially in a figurative sense. Jibing is often cited in sailing competitions and training manuals, emphasizing the importance of mastering this skill to ensure maritime safety and efficiency.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,908, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.