Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1976 (SND Vol. X).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
JERK, v. Of a ship: to prepare to leave port. Vbl.n. jerkin(g), a jollification held on the occasion. Jerkin, n.2, is prob. the same word.Abd. 1852 A. Ross Poems 131–3:
Sung at the Jerking of a Vessel. . . . Or sic a dainty dish o' meat, Whane'er a ship is jerkin'. Kcb. 1891 M.A.M. Halloween Guest 219:
She accepted an invitation to a “jerking” or dance given by sailors when about to leave port.
[Extended usages of Eng. jerk, jerque, to search a ship's papers and check on the cargo, as done by customs officials, who then issue a jerk-note to allow the ship to set sail.]
