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Jostled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jostled

[ˈdʒɑːsəld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical interaction

Jostled is the simple past tense of the verb jostle, which means to push or bump against someone or something roughly, typically in a crowded situation. This action often involves a degree of force that may cause the other person or object to move a short distance. It can also imply a level of disruption in a personal space or environment, often occurring unintentionally during events like concerts, public transport, or sports. The term can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts, suggesting competition or rivalry amongst individuals in different spheres.

Synonyms

bump, jolt, push, shake.

Examples of usage

  • He jostled his way through the crowd.
  • The players jostled for position on the field.
  • They jostled each other playfully.
  • The bus jostled as it hit the potholes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Social Interaction

  • Jostling can happen in crowded places like concerts or public transport, often leading to accidental collisions.
  • It's common in sports, where players jostle for possession of the ball or position on the field.
  • In some cultures, gentle jostling can be a sign of camaraderie, showing a playful interaction among friends.

Psychology

  • The experience of being jostled in a crowd can trigger feelings of stress or anxiety for some individuals.
  • It can also enhance feelings of social connection, as people feel part of a group moving together, even if it's uncomfortable.
  • Studies show that personal space preferences vary by culture, influencing how people perceive jostling in public.

Literature

  • Jostling is often used in stories to create vivid scenes of bustling markets or hectic events.
  • Authors like Charles Dickens depict crowds with characters being jostled, enhancing the lively atmosphere of cities.
  • In poetry, jostling can symbolize the chaos of life, where individuals navigate through challenges and obstacles.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many Asian cultures, jostling is a normal part of urban life, as people navigate busy streets with practiced ease.
  • In contrast, some Western cultures may place a higher value on personal space, viewing jostling as intrusive behavior.
  • Festivals often involve jostling as part of dance and movement, bringing people closer together in celebration.

Origin of 'jostled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'jostlen', which means to shake or push.
  • It has roots in the Old French word 'jostler', which means to push or shove.
  • The sense of jostling as pushing in a crowd has been used since at least the 15th century.

The word 'jostled' originates from the late Middle English term 'jostlen,' which is derived from the Middle Dutch word 'joostelen,' meaning 'to push' or 'to shove.' The term has been used in English since the 15th century, denoting a sense of physical shoving or bumping into someone in a crowded space. The concept of jostling can be linked to various physical interactions observed in both nature and human behavior, especially within dynamic environments where movement is constant. Over time, the meaning has evolved to include not just physical contact but also the figurative sense of competing or asserting oneself in various situations. This evolution reflects the adaptability of language and how specific terms can broaden to encompass wider social behaviors.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,331, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.