noun

jaywalking

Jaywalking (noun) means crossing a street illegally or carelessly, away from a crosswalk or against traffic signals. Example: “He got a ticket for jaywalking in front of a police car.”

noun

Crossing a street illegally or carelessly, away from a crosswalk or against traffic signals.

"He got a ticket for jaywalking in front of a police car."

"Jaywalking is technically illegal in many cities, though rarely enforced."

How to use jaywalking

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishCrossing the road somewhere you're not supposed to.

Common pairings

jaywalking ticket caught jaywalking

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Fill the gap

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He got a ticket for _____ in front of a police car.

Etymology

Built from "jay," an old term for a foolish or naive person, plus "walking" — the idea being that only a fool would cross carelessly.

Rhymes for jaywalking

talking walking stalking sleepwalking

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Frequently asked questions

What does “jaywalking” mean?

The word “jaywalking” means crossing a street illegally or carelessly, away from a crosswalk or against traffic signals. In plain terms, crossing the road somewhere you're not supposed to.

How do you use “jaywalking” in a sentence?

Here is “jaywalking” used in a sentence: “He got a ticket for jaywalking in front of a police car.”

What part of speech is “jaywalking”?

“Jaywalking” is a noun.

What is the meaning of jaywalking?

"jaywalking" (noun) means crossing a street illegally or carelessly, away from a crosswalk or against traffic signals.