hijack etymology

Etymology:

The word "hijack" is derived from two earlier terms:

• High: Referring to the elevated position of stagecoaches on highways, where they were vulnerable to attacks.
• Jack: A slang term for a thief or a swindler, often used to describe highway robbers.

Meaning:

• To seize control of a vehicle or aircraft by force, especially while it is in transit.
• To forcefully take possession of something, such as a person, goods, or information.
• To interfere with or obstruct the operation of a vehicle, vessel, or aircraft without taking control of it.

Origin:

The term "hijack" originated in the late 18th century in England. Highwaymen would often attack stagecoaches traveling on elevated roads, known as "highways." These robbers were known as "high jackers," which later evolved into the more general term "hijackers."

By the early 19th century, the term "hijack" began to be applied to other situations involving the seizure of vehicles or goods by force. In the 20th century, it was extended to include aircraft hijackings, as well as non-violent forms of obstruction, such as blocking roads or railways.

hijack relate terms

• Jack

  Etymology Derived from the Middle English name Jakke a vernacular form of the Mediev

• Jack

  Etymology Derived from the Middle English name Jakke a vernacular form of the Mediev

• skyjack

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• hijack

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