JERK, verb transitive [This is probably the Ch.Heb. to reach, to spit, that is, to throw out with a sudden effort.]

1. To thrust out; to thrust with a sudden effort; to give a sudden pull, twitch, thrust or push, as, to jerk one under the ribs; to jerk one with the elbow.

2. To throw with a quick, smart motion; as, to jerk a stone. We apply this word to express the mode of throwing to a little distance by drawing the arm back of the body, and thrusting it forward against the side or hip, which stops the arm suddenly.

JERK, verb transitive To accost eagerly. [Not in use.]

JERK, noun A short sudden thrust, push or twitch; a striking against something with a short quick motion; as a jerk of the elbow.

His jade gave him a jerk

1. A sudden spring.

Lobsters swim by jerks.