Yank: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing a sudden and forceful pull, often without care or delicacy. It can have a slightly negative or aggressive connotation.

• She yanked the door open.
• He yanked the rope to get the bucket out of the well.

A general term for dragging or tugging something towards oneself, suitable for most situations involving force or effort.

• Can you help me pull this table across the room?
• He pulled the curtains open to let in some light.

Describes a quick, sharp movement, usually abrupt and often unintended. It can also have an informal negative connotation when describing someone's behavior as rude or inconsiderate.

• He gave the leash a quick jerk.
• She jerked the steering wheel to avoid hitting the deer.

This word is appropriate when talking about moving something heavy or with great effort over some distance. It often implies a considerable amount of work.

• They had to haul the furniture up to the third floor.
• The fishermen hauled in a large net of fish.

This term is often used informally or colloquially, sometimes in a playful or mildly derogatory way, especially by non-Americans to refer to people from the United States.

• The Yank tourists were easy to spot with their loud clothing and cameras.
• Oh, you’re a Yank? Haven’t seen many around here lately.

This is the most standard and neutral term to denote someone from the United States. It is suitable for formal, written, and spoken contexts.

• She is an American journalist reporting on global issues.
• As an American, he values his freedom and independence.

This is a formal term often used in legal, governmental, or official contexts to specify someone holding citizenship of the United States.

• Every US citizen has the right to vote in the election.
• The embassy provides various services for US citizens living abroad.

This term can be historical or regional, often referring to people from the northern United States. It can also be used in a historical context referring to Union soldiers in the American Civil War. Sometimes, it might be used in a more playful or derogatory way similar to 'Yank'.

• During the Civil War, the Yankees fought against the Confederates.
• Some Southern states still use the term 'Yankee' to describe people from the North.