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lurch

verb

/lɜrtʃ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of lurch

To make a sudden, jerky, and often uncontrolled movement or shift, typically involving a quick and abrupt change in direction or position.
"The ship began to lurch from side to side as it encountered rough waves."

Detailed meaning of lurch

It is often associated with an unsteady or unstable motion, where the movement is not smooth or fluid. When something or someone lurches, they move in an unpredictable and irregular manner, often causing a sense of imbalance or unease. This action can apply to various objects or living beings, such as a vehicle lurching forward when starting abruptly or a person lurching sideways due to losing their balance. Lurching can occur due to external forces, mechanical issues, or sudden changes in momentum. Overall, the verb "lurch" implies an unsteady and abrupt movement that may catch people off guard or cause a sense of instability.

Example sentences containing lurch

1. I lurch forward as the bus abruptly stops.
2. You lurch to the side as the car takes a sharp turn.
3. He, she, or it lurches backwards, startled by the sudden noise.
4. We lurch ahead as the boat hits a wave.
5. You (plural) lurch uncontrollably as the roller coaster speeds down the track.
6. They lurch sideways, trying to regain their balance on the icy surface.

History and etymology of lurch

The verb 'lurch' has an interesting etymology that is rooted in nautical terminology. It is believed to have originated in the 16th century from the French word 'lourche,' which meant 'a sudden movement or pitch of a ship.' This French term likely came from an Old French word with similar meanings. The connection between 'lurch' and ships makes sense when you consider its definition – to make a sudden, jerky, and often uncontrolled movement. On a ship, this might occur when it rolls or tilts unexpectedly due to waves or rough seas, causing an abrupt change in its position. Over time, 'lurch' expanded beyond nautical contexts to describe any abrupt and unpredictable movement or shift, whether involving ships or other objects, and even figuratively referring to sudden changes in circumstances or plans. The nautical origins of 'lurch' highlight its historical association with sudden, jarring movements.

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Further usage examples of lurch

1. I feel my stomach lurch as the elevator suddenly drops.
2. You lurch forward as the train starts moving.
3. He, she, or it lurches awkwardly, struggling to find their footing.
4. We lurch to a stop at the traffic light.
5. You (plural) lurch backwards, caught off guard by the unexpected push.
6. They lurch to the side, avoiding a collision with a pedestrian.
7. I sense the ground beneath me lurch as the earthquake begins.
8. You feel your heart lurch as you look down from the tall building.
9. He, she, or it lurches towards the door, eager to escape the room.
10. We lurch to a halt, realizing we have reached our destination.
11. You (plural) lurch forward, propelled by the sudden gust of wind.
12. They lurch backward, startled by the loud noise.
13. I watch the boat lurch in the rough waters, struggling to stay steady.
14. You (plural) see the car in front of you lurch forward as the traffic moves.