jigger

/'dʤigə/

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The word "jigger" can have a few different meanings, so let's break them down in a simple way.

Basic Definition

1. Larval Mite: In biology, a jigger refers to a type of small mite (a tiny creature) that can suck the blood of animals, including humans. This can cause irritation or discomfort.

2. Sailing Term: In sailing, a jigger is a small mast on a boat, specifically the mizzenmast of a yawl (a type of sailing vessel). This mast helps support the sails.

3. Measuring Tool: In the context of drinks, a jigger is a small glass or tool used to measure a specific amount of liquid, usually alcohol, like whiskey. It typically holds about 1.5 ounces or a "single swallow" of liquor.

Usage Instructions

• When talking about the biological meaning, you might say, "I got a jigger from walking barefoot in the grass."
• In sailing, you might hear, "The jigger helps control the boat's sails."
• For drinks, you could say, "Please use the jigger to measure the whiskey for the cocktail."

Examples

• Biological: "The jigger mite can cause a lot of itching."
• Sailing: "The crew adjusted the sails attached to the jigger."
• Measuring Tool: "He poured the whiskey using a jigger to ensure the right amount."

Advanced Usage

In scientific discussions, you might encounter phrases like "jigger infestation" when referring to the presence of these mites in an area. In sailing, you might discuss "rigging the jigger" when adjusting the sails of the boat.

Word Variants

• Jiggered: This term can also mean to be messed up or to have been affected by something negatively. For example, "My plans were jiggered by the rain."

Different Meanings

• In some contexts, especially in informal British English, "jigger" can also refer to a device or machine that is broken or not functioning well.

Synonyms

• For the measuring tool: Measure, shot glass.
• For the biological meaning: Mite.
• For the sailing term: Mast, sail support.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

There aren’t many idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to “jigger,” but you might hear the phrase “jiggered up,” which can mean something is broken or messed up.

Summary

So remember, "jigger" can refer to a tiny creature that irritates, a small mast on a boat, or a tool for measuring drinks.

Academic

Noun

1. larval mite that sucks the blood of vertebrates including human beings causing intense irritation
2. any small mast on a sailing vessel; especially the mizzenmast of a yawl
3. a small glass adequate to hold a single swallow of whiskey

Synonyms

• harvest mite
• chigger
• redbug
• jiggermast
• shot glass
• pony