: a paralysis caused by drinking improperly distilled or contaminated liquor

Word History

Etymology

jake grain alcohol flavored with an alcoholic extract of ginger

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jake leg was in 1932

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Jake leg.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jake%20leg. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

: a paralysis caused by drinking improperly distilled or contaminated liquor
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