What does "jimmy up" mean (sense 1)?

To force something upward or into position using a tool or lever. Example: "He jimmied up the loose floorboard to retrieve the hidden key."

jimmy up

C1 informal separable transitive

To force something open or into place using a jimmy (a crowbar-like tool) or similar leverage.

In plain English

To use a tool to push or force something up or open.

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 C1 informal

rare

To force something upward or into position using a tool or lever.

"He jimmied up the loose floorboard to retrieve the hidden key."

separable

Words literally mean

To use a jimmy tool in an upward direction.

Actually means

To use a tool to push or force something up or open.

Usage tip

Primarily American English. Less common than 'jimmy open'. Often used in the context of breaking into something or forcing a stuck object upward.

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

lock window door lid panel floorboard

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base

jimmy up

I/you/we/they

3rd person

jimmies up

he/she/it

Past simple

jimmied up

yesterday

Past participle

jimmied up

have + pp

-ing form

jimmying up

continuous

Listen to native speakers using "jimmy up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

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