jitterbug

1 of 2

noun

jit·​ter·​bug ˈji-tər-ˌbəg 

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

Noun

Cheerful propaganda photos showed Hollywood stars like Gary Cooper on morale-boosting visits and smiling American soldiers teaching Aussie girls the jitterbug. —Tony Perrottet, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 Sep. 2024

Sometimes, Mays would do a conversational jitterbug. —Mark Purdy, The Mercury News, 18 June 2024

Verb

Clifton Daniel, for instance, jitterbugged with an expertise that increased one’s respect for The New York Times. —Gloria Steinem, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2024

Linders says the audience for trad jazz can generally be put into three categories: There are swing dancers who are eager to jitterbug to some hot sounds. —Noah Schaffer, BostonGlobe.com, 21 Aug. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1938, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1939, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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