noun
lurch
lurch
Lurch (noun) means a sudden, unsteady movement, especially forward or to one side. Example: “The train gave a lurch as it pulled out of the station.”
noun
1
A sudden, unsteady movement, especially forward or to one side.
"The train gave a lurch as it pulled out of the station."
verb
1
To move suddenly and unsteadily.
"He lurched to his feet after the long flight."
"The drunk man lurched across the room and knocked over a chair."
How to use lurch
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sudden, clumsy, unsteady movement — or to move that way.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with the phrase "leave someone in the lurch," meaning to abandon them in a difficult situation — that comes from an old card game, not from this "stumble" sense.
Common pairings
lurch forward
give a lurch
leave in the lurch
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Word forms
- Plural
- lurches
- Third person singular
- lurches
- Past tense
- lurched
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The train gave a _____ as it pulled out of the station.
Etymology
Originally a nautical term describing a ship rolling violently in rough seas; its ultimate origin is unknown, though it may be linked to French lâcher ("to let go").
Related words
Rhymes for lurch
See all rhymes for lurch →Frequently asked questions
What does “lurch” mean?
The word “lurch” means a sudden, unsteady movement, especially forward or to one side. In plain terms, a sudden, clumsy, unsteady movement — or to move that way.
How do you pronounce “lurch”?
“Lurch” is pronounced lurch (/lɜɹt͡ʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “lurch” in a sentence?
Here is “lurch” used in a sentence: “The train gave a lurch as it pulled out of the station.”
What part of speech is “lurch”?
Depending on how it is used, “lurch” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “lurch” come from?
The word “lurch” comes from French. Originally a nautical term describing a ship rolling violently in rough seas; its ultimate origin is unknown, though it may be linked to French lâcher ("to let go").
How many meanings does “lurch” have?
“Lurch” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a sudden, unsteady movement, especially forward or to one side.
