jitterbug

1 of 2

noun

jit·​ter·​bug ˈji-tər-ˌbəg How to pronounce jitterbug (audio)
Synonyms of jitterbugnext
1
: a jazz variation of the two-step in which couples swing, balance, and twirl in standardized patterns and often with vigorous acrobatics
2
: one who dances the jitterbug

jitterbug

2 of 2

verb

jitterbugged; jitterbugging; jitterbugs

intransitive verb

1
: to dance the jitterbug
2
: to move around or back and forth with quick often jerky movements especially to confuse or disconcert an opponent in sports

Examples of jitterbug in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The most complicated headpieces to make, according to Gee, were the poppies and the jitterbugs. — Kansas City Star, 4 May 2026 Okorie is the best driving guard in the class, a 6-1 jitterbug who manipulates defenders with a tight handle, sudden changes of speed, and an advanced feel for the game. — Joe Nguyen, Denver Post, 16 June 2026
Verb
Patrons could summon up Ellington for a coin and start jitterbugging. — Manohla Dargis, New York Times, 3 Apr. 2020 Clifton Daniel, for instance, jitterbugged with an expertise that increased one’s respect for The New York Times. — Gloria Steinem, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2024 See All Example Sentences for jitterbug

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1938, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1939, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of jitterbug was in 1938

Rhymes for jitterbug

See All Rhymes for jitterbug

Browse Nearby Words

jitter
jitterbug
jitteriness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Jitterbug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jitterbug. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

jitterbug

noun
jit·​ter·​bug
ˈjit-ər-ˌbəg
1
: a dance in which couples swing, balance, and twirl with lively acrobatics
2
: a person who dances the jitterbug
jitterbug verb

More from Merriam-Webster on jitterbug

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for jitterbug

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about jitterbug

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