jarring
UK: ˈdʒɑːrɪŋ | US: ˈdʒɑːrɪŋ
Definition
adj. causing a harsh or discordant sound
adj. creating a sense of shock or incongruity
v. (present participle of "jar") shaking or vibrating abruptly
Structure
jar <to vibrate harshly>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology
The word "jarring" derives from the verb "jar," which originated in the late 16th century, likely imitative of a harsh grating sound (e.g., "jar" as in a physical jolt). The "-ing" suffix forms the present participle, turning it into an adjective describing something that produces such an effect. Over time, "jarring" expanded beyond literal vibrations to describe metaphorical dissonance (e.g., "a jarring contrast").
Examples
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