verb
Common
Jim
jihm
Jim (verb) means to pry or force something open, or to tamper with it clumsily (a casual variant of "jimmy"). Example: “He jimmed the window latch with a screwdriver.”
verb
1
To pry or force something open, or to tamper with it clumsily (a casual variant of "jimmy").
"He jimmed the window latch with a screwdriver."
"Someone had jimmed the lock on the shed."
noun
1
Old British slang for a one-pound banknote.
"He handed over a couple of jims for the round."
How to use Jim
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAs a verb, forcing something open; as slang, a one-pound note.
Common mistake
Don't confuse the verb sense with the given name Jim — the verb is a rare, informal variant of jimmy.
Common pairings
jim a lock
jim the window
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Word forms
- Plural
- Jims
- Third person singular
- jims
- Past tense
- jimmed
Fill the gap
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He handed over a couple of _____ for the round.
Etymology
A shortened, casual form of "jimmy," itself linked to the name James.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “Jim” mean?
The word “Jim” means to pry or force something open, or to tamper with it clumsily (a casual variant of "jimmy"). In plain terms, as a verb, forcing something open; as slang, a one-pound note.
How do you pronounce “Jim”?
“Jim” is pronounced jihm (/d͡ʒɪm/ in IPA).
How do you use “Jim” in a sentence?
Here is “Jim” used in a sentence: “He jimmed the window latch with a screwdriver.”
What part of speech is “Jim”?
Depending on how it is used, “Jim” can be a verb and a noun.
Is “Jim” a common word?
“Jim” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “Jim” have?
“Jim” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to pry or force something open, or to tamper with it clumsily (a casual variant of "jimmy").
What is the difference between jim and jimmy?
They mean the same thing — to pry or force something open, often a lock, door, or window. Jimmy is the standard form, both as a verb and as the name of the crowbar-like tool used. Jim is a casual, clipped variant heard in speech. In writing, jimmy is far more common.
What does it mean to jim a lock?
To jim a lock is to force it open with a tool or improvised lever rather than a key, or to tamper with it clumsily. It suggests prying, wedging, or wrenching the mechanism until it gives. The word carries a rough, makeshift sense, as opposed to skilled, careful lock-picking.
Is jim a formal word?
No. Jim in this sense is informal and colloquial, a spoken variant of jimmy. It is fine in casual conversation but out of place in formal or technical writing, where prise open, force open, or jimmy would be preferred. Note that it is unrelated to the personal name Jim.
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