Jimmy: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Derived as a diminutive form of the name James, which itself comes from Hebrew and means 'supplanter'.
• The name has been popular in English-speaking countries since the 19th century, often associated with a friendly or playful character.

Pop Culture

• Jimmy is a popular character name in various movies and TV shows, often representing the everyman or a lovable rogue.
• Jimmy Fallon, a beloved late-night talk show host, has made the name synonymous with humor and entertainment.

Science

• In physics, 'jimmying' can refer to the act of manipulating items, similar to how one might use clever tactics to achieve a goal.
• The term also finds its way into robotics, where 'jimmy' suggests using ingenuity to overcome obstacles in programming or design.

Literature

• The character Jimmy from the book 'The Given Day' by Dennis Lehane represents life’s struggles and triumphs in a historical context.
• In poetry, a name like Jimmy often symbolizes bravery or the journey of self-discovery, reflecting common human experiences.

History

• In the early 20th century, 'jimmy' emerged as slang for a crowbar, often associated with burglary.
• Law enforcement in the past used the term 'jimmy' when referring to break-ins using such tools, showcasing its ties to crime prevention.