jack

jack ► NOUN 1) a device for lifting heavy objects. 2) a playing card bearing a representation of a soldier, page, or knave, normally ranking next below a queen. 3) (also jack socket) a socket designed to receive a jack plug. 4) the small white ball at which bowls players aim. 5) a small playing-piece used in tossing and catching games. 6) (jacks) a game played by tossing and catching jacks. 7) a small national flag flown at the bow of a vessel in harbour. 8) the male of various animals, e.g. the donkey. 9) used in names of animals and plants that are smaller than similar kinds, e.g. jack pine. 10) a perch-like marine fish, typically with a row of large spiky scales along each side.

► VERB 1) (jack up) raise with a jack. 2) (jack up) informal increase by a considerable amount. 3) (jack in/into) log into or connect up (a computer or electronic device). 4) (jack in) Brit. informal give up. 5) (jack up) Austral. give up or refuse to participate.

● every man jack — Cf. ↑every man jack

● jack of all trades (and master of none) — Cf. ↑jack of all trades and master of none

ORIGIN from Jack, familiar form of the given name John, used originally to denote an ordinary man.