Definition jib
Etymology 1
Attested since the 1660s, of uncertain origin. Perhaps related to jib (“shift or swing around”) (see below).
Noun
jib (plural jibs)
- (nautical) A triangular staysail set forward of the foremast. In a sloop (see image) the basic jib reaches back roughly to the level of the mast.
- (nautical, usually with a modifier) Any of a variety of specialty triangular staysails set forward of the foremast.
Etymology 2
Attested since the 1680s (also spelled jibe and gybe), perhaps from Dutch gijben (a variant of gijpen (“to turn sails suddenly”), whence certainly the form jibe) or else from Danish gibbe (“jib, jibe”), related to Swedish gippa (“jib, jibe, jerk, make jump”). Compare also Middle High German gempeln (“to spring”), Swedish guppa (“to move up and down”), Swedish gumpa (“to jump, spring”). See jump.
Verb
jib (third-person singular simple present jibs, present participle jibbing, simple past and past participle jibbed)
- (chiefly nautical) To shift, or swing around, as a sail, boom, yard, etc., as in tacking.
Etymology 3
Attested since the 1660s, of uncertain origin, perhaps a shortening of gibbet.
Noun
jib (plural jibs)
- The projecting arm of a crane.
- (metonymically) A crane used for mounting and moving a video camera.
- An object that is used for performing tricks while skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, in-line skating, or biking. These objects are usually found in a terrain park or skate park.
Etymology 4
Of uncertain origin, perhaps related to jib (“shift or swing around”) (see above).
Verb
jib (third-person singular simple present jibs, present participle jibbing, simple past and past participle jibbed)
- To stop and refuse to go forward (usually of a horse).
- (figuratively) To stop doing something, to become reluctant to proceed with an activity.
Noun
jib (plural jibs)
- One who jibs or balks, refusing to continue forward.
- A stationary condition; a standstill.
Etymology 5
Noun
jib
- (slang) Crystal meth.
Etymology 6
Noun
jib (plural jibs)
- (slang, especially African American Vernacular) The mouth, sometimes particularly the tongue, underlip, or tooth.