jigger

1 of 3

noun (1)

jig·​ger ˈji-gər How to pronounce jigger (audio)
1
: a measure used in mixing drinks that usually holds 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 milliliters)
2
: one that jigs or operates a jig
3
: any of several sails
4
5
a(1)
: a mechanical device usually with a jerky reciprocating motion
(2)
: a mold or a machine incorporating a revolving mold on which ceramic items (such as plates) are formed
b

jigger

2 of 3

verb

jiggered; jiggering; jiggers

intransitive verb

: to jerk up and down

transitive verb

: to alter or rearrange especially by manipulating
jigger an election district

jigger

3 of 3

noun (2)

1
2
or less commonly jigger flea : chigoe sense 1

Examples of jigger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
The shaker comes with a mixing spoon and jigger for easy portion-sizing. Gabriela Izquierdo, Southern Living, 31 Jan. 2024 The five-piece tool set with stand includes a strainer, stirrer, double jigger, bottle opener and knife, plus an ice bucket, cocktail shaker and 14-inch round tray. Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 31 Jan. 2024 For the more design-minded mixologist, opt for the sleek brass set from Hawkins New York that includes an ice bucket and a jigger. Alaina Chou, Bon Appétit, 8 Dec. 2023 Included is a martini shaker, muddler, pouring tips, a bar spoon, lemon zester, strainer, jiggers, and more. Amanda Ogle, Southern Living, 28 Nov. 2023 Whiskey connoisseurs will have highball glasses and decanters, while the mixologist may have several shakers, jiggers, and cocktail spoons. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 30 Oct. 2023 The stainless steel set also includes a measuring jigger, corkscrew, liquor pour spouts, and even a cocktail recipe book so your favorite couple can find a new cocktail for happy hour. Brittany Vanderbill, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Aug. 2023 The double-sided jigger lists milliliters and centiliters to precisely measure liquids for metric and imperial drink recipes. Belle Duchene, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2023 Become a pro bartender with this stylish gold and marble cocktail set that includes two stirring spoons, a strainer, and a jigger for 31 percent off. Lauren Taylor, Southern Living, 20 July 2023
Verb
In addition to the A-10, Congress allowed the Air Force to jigger the B-1 bomber fleet. Kyle Mizokami, Popular Mechanics, 8 Dec. 2020

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'jigger.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Verb

frequentative of jig entry 2

Noun (2)

perhaps from Wolof jiga insect

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1675, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Verb

1867, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Noun (2)

1756, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of jigger was in 1675

Dictionary Entries Near jigger

Cite this Entry

“Jigger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jigger. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

jigger

1 of 2 noun
jig·​ger ˈjig-ər How to pronounce jigger (audio)
1
: one that jigs
2
3
: a measure used in mixing drinks that usually holds 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 milliliters)

jigger

2 of 2 noun
Etymology

Noun

jig (verb) and -er (noun suffix)

Noun

perhaps from Wolof (an African language) jiga "insect"

Medical Definition

jigger

noun
jig·​ger ˈjig-ər How to pronounce jigger (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on jigger

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!