Meanings
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1
noun
a lively traditional dance with quick steps and jumps, or the music for it
The fiddler struck up a jig and the dancers formed a circle.
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2
verb
to dance or move with quick, lively, jerking steps
He jigged with excitement beneath the streetlamp.
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3
noun
a device that holds work in position or guides a cutting tool during repeated operations
The carpenter used a jig to drill every hole at the same angle.
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4
noun
a weighted fishing lure designed to move up and down in the water
She lowered a bright jig beside the pier.
Thesaurus
Etymology
The history is uncertain. The dance name may be related to Middle English gigge and Old French gigue, words for a fiddle; the technical and fishing senses developed from the characteristic guided or jerking motion.