Word
Definition
n. meat that has been cut into thin strips and dried so it does not spoil. It is a chewy snack that people often take on long trips because it stays good for a long time.
n. meat, typically beef, that has been trimmed of fat, cut into strips, and dried to prevent spoilage. Often seasoned with salt or spices and cured to achieve a tough, chewy texture.
Examples
“I bought some beef jerky for our hike.”
“Because it is lightweight and high in protein, jerky is a popular snack for backpackers and campers.”
“While traditionally a method of preservation for survival, jerky has evolved into a diverse gourmet market featuring exotic meats and complex marinades ranging from teriyaki to habanero.”
Examples
simple
“I bought some beef jerky for our hike.”
contextual
“Because it is lightweight and high in protein, jerky is a popular snack for backpackers and campers.”
complex
“While traditionally a method of preservation for survival, jerky has evolved into a diverse gourmet market featuring exotic meats and complex marinades ranging from teriyaki to habanero.”
Usage
Usually uncountable when referring to the food item in general; can be countable when referring to specific types or commercial packages.
Real-World Examples
“It’s smoked and dried out for around 7 months and is kind of similar to beef jerky.” Etymology
From jerk + -y.
Borrowed from Spanish charqui, from Quechua charki.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/jerky
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「日本語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0