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noun

JIT

jit, or jay-eye-TEE

JIT (noun) means a young person, especially a kid or teenager seen as inexperienced; common in US hip-hop and Southern slang. Example: “The jits outside were arguing over a bike.”

noun
1
slang A young person, especially a kid or teenager seen as inexperienced; common in US hip-hop and Southern slang.
"The jits outside were arguing over a bike."
"He's still a jit, he'll learn."
abbreviation
1
computing Just-in-time: a way of compiling computer code into machine instructions while a program is running, rather than beforehand, so that it executes faster.
"The JIT compiler optimises hot loops after a few thousand iterations."
"Turning off the JIT made the benchmark five times slower."
2
business Just-in-time: a manufacturing and stock-control method in which materials arrive only as they are needed, keeping inventory to a minimum.
"JIT delivery keeps warehouse costs down but leaves no cushion for delays."
"The pandemic exposed the fragility of JIT supply chains."

How to use JIT

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDoing or delivering something at the exact moment it is needed, not in advance.

When to use it

Technical shorthand. Spell out just-in-time on first mention outside a specialist audience.

Memory tip

As a modifier before a noun the spelled-out form is hyphenated: just-in-time compilation, just-in-time delivery.

Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
JIT vs AOT JIT vs just-in-case inventory
Common pairings
JIT compiler JIT compilation JIT manufacturing JIT inventory JIT delivery
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ outside were arguing over a bike.

Etymology

In the slang sense, US regional (Florida and the South), of uncertain origin. In the technical senses, an initialism of 'just in time'.

Origin: English

Antonyms

just-in-case

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between JIT and AOT compilation?

AOT (ahead-of-time) compilation turns source code into machine code before the program runs, giving fast startup and predictable performance. JIT compiles during execution, which costs startup time but lets the compiler optimise based on what the program actually does.

What does JIT mean in manufacturing?

It means parts and materials are ordered to arrive exactly when the production line needs them, so almost nothing sits in storage. It cuts holding costs but makes the operation vulnerable to supply disruption.

Is JIT the same in software and business?

The underlying idea is the same — do the work at the last responsible moment — but the fields are unrelated in practice. Context makes it clear which is meant.

What is the meaning of JIT?

"JIT" (noun) means a young person, especially a kid or teenager seen as inexperienced; common in US hip-hop and Southern slang.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial · etymology from FreeDict original editorial