jerky
UK: ˈdʒɜː.ki | US: ˈdʒɝː.ki
n. 1. Dried, lean meat preserved by cutting into strips and curing (e.g., beef jerky).
adj. 2. Characterized by abrupt, uneven movements; spasmodic or shaky.
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The word "jerky" derives from the Spanish "charqui," borrowed from Quechua (Indigenous South American language) "ch'arki," meaning "dried meat." The Spanish adapted the term during colonial contact in the Americas, and English later modified it to "jerky." The adjective sense ("abrupt movements") emerged in the 19th century, metaphorically evoking the uneven texture or motion resembling dried meat's toughness.
He packed beef jerky for the hiking trip as a lightweight protein source.
The old truck moved in jerky stops and starts along the dirt road.
Her jerky handwriting made the note difficult to read.
The robot’s jerky motions revealed its outdated programming.
They shared spicy jerky while camping under the stars.