Definition of: jump

(jump) v.i.
1. To spring from the ground, floor, etc., by the action of the muscles of the feet and legs.
2. To move abruptly as by bounds or leaps.
3. To rise abruptly: The temperature jumped.
4. In checkers, to capture an opponent's piece by passing a man over it to a vacant square beyond.
—v.t.
5. To leap over.
6. To cause to leap: to jump a horse over a barrier.
7. To cause to rise, as prices.
8. To pass over; leave out: to jump a stage in explaining a process.
9. To leave or move from abruptly: to jump the track.
10. To take possession of illegally: to jump a claim.
11. U.S. Colloq. To get on or off (a train, etc.) by or as by jumping.
12. Colloq. To assault; attack.
13. Slang To leave or quit abruptly or secretly: to jump town.
14. In checkers, to capture (an opponent's piece) by passing a man over it.
15. In bridge, to raise (the bid) in a partner's suit more than necessary, as in indicating a strong hand.
16. In hunting, to cause (game) to leave cover; start; flush.
—to jump at
1. To accept quickly or eagerly.
2. To reach (a conclusion) hastily and illogically.
—to jump bail U.S. Slang To forfeit by violating the terms of.
—to jump on To scold; castigate.
—to jump ship To desert a ship.
—to jump the gun Colloq.
1. To begin before the starting signal is given.
2. To begin prematurely.
—noun
1. The act of jumping; a leap; spring.
2. The length or height of a leap; also, that which is jumped over.
3. Colloq. A head start; advantage: He has the jump on me.
4. An involuntary twitch or movement, as when startled.
5. plural Convulsive starts, as in delirium tremens.
6. Mining A fault or dislocation, as of a vein.
7. An abrupt break in a level course of masonry.
8. Obs. An effort; attempt.
—on the jump Colloq. Hurrying from one thing to another; on the go; working hard and fast. [Origin uncertain]