jerkwater etymology

Etymology:

  • The term "jerkwater" is a slang expression that originated in the United States in the mid-1800s.
  • It is derived from the term "jerk," which referred to the sudden stop of a train when it reached a small, unimportant station.

Meaning:

  • A jerkwater town or place is a small, isolated, and unimportant community.
  • It is often used to describe a place that is considered dull or backward.

Origin:

  • The term likely originated from the experience of passengers on early railroads.
  • When the train would stop abruptly at a small station, the passengers would experience a sudden jolt or "jerk."
  • Over time, the term "jerkwater" became associated with these small, unimportant stations and the towns around them.

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