juggle

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to repeatedly throw and catch several objects so that at least one remains in the air

   She can juggle three balls while walking across the stage.

2. 2
   verb

   to manage several tasks, responsibilities, or demands at the same time

   He had to juggle work, childcare, and evening classes.

3. 3
   verb

   to rearrange or manipulate facts, figures, or resources in a misleading way

   The company was accused of trying to juggle its accounts to hide the loss.

From Middle English jogelen, from Old French jogler or jongler, shaped by Latin joculari, 'to joke,' and Old French jangler, 'to chatter or entertain.' The senses of managing demands or manipulating facts extend the image of keeping objects in motion and the older association with tricks.

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