jagged
The jagged rocks made it impossible to climb the cliff safely.
The sharp, uneven edges of the rocks prevented safe climbing.
Having rough, sharp points or edges that are uneven or irregular.
The jagged coastline was difficult to navigate by ship.
The uneven, sharp-edged shoreline posed navigation challenges.
She tore her dress on a jagged piece of metal.
The sharp edge of the metal tore the fabric.
Often used to describe physical objects with irregular, pointed edges. Can also describe emotions or experiences that feel rough or uneven.
Uneven or irregular in shape, pattern, or progress.
The stock market showed jagged growth over the past year.
The market's progress was uneven, with sharp ups and downs.
Used metaphorically to describe fluctuations or inconsistencies in non-physical contexts.
Collocations
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'jagged' vs. 'serrated'
'Jagged' emphasizes sharp, irregular edges, while 'serrated' describes a saw-like edge with regular, sharp teeth. For example, a knife blade is 'serrated,' but a broken glass has 'jagged' edges.
Gold Rule
Use 'jagged' for physical sharpness
Reserve 'jagged' for describing physical objects with uneven, sharp points or edges. Avoid using it for smooth or regular shapes.
Use figurative 'jagged' for inconsistencies
In non-physical contexts, 'jagged' can describe uneven progress, fluctuations, or irregular patterns, but avoid overusing it in formal writing.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'jagged' (past participle of 'jaggen' meaning 'to notch or cut'), likely of Scandinavian origin (compare Old Norse 'jaka' meaning 'to chatter or jabber', related to 'jag' meaning 'a sharp point').
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. In physical descriptions, it emphasizes the danger or difficulty posed by sharp edges. In metaphorical contexts, it describes inconsistencies or abrupt changes.