jag

/dʒæg/

/dʒæg/

Other forms: jagged; jags; jagging

A jag is a sharp area that protrudes from a surface, a pointed bump or knob. The walls of a cave, rather than being smooth, might be lined with rocky jags.

You'll encounter jags when you're mountain climbing or walking along the rocky coast. To "be on a jag" or "go on a jag" means to be completely unrestrained, whether you're on a drinking jag or a crying jag. This second meaning is of U.S. origin, first meaning "a load of hay or wood," and later "as much drink as a man can hold," in the 17th century. By the 1880s, it was "a period of unrestrained activity."

Definitions of jag

1. noun

   a sharp projection on an edge or surface
   “he clutched a jag of the rock”

   type of:

   projection

   any solid convex shape that juts out from something
2. noun

   a flap along the edge of a garment; used in medieval clothing
   synonyms: dag

   type of:

   flap

   any broad, thin, and limber covering attached at one edge; hangs loose or projects freely
3. noun

   a slit in a garment that exposes material of a different color underneath; used in Renaissance clothing
   type of:

   slit

   a long narrow opening
4. verb

   cut teeth into; make a jagged cutting edge
   types:

   serrate

   make saw-toothed or jag the edge of

   type of:

   cut

   separate with or as if with an instrument
5. noun

   a bout of drinking or drug taking
   type of:

   decadence, intemperance, intemperateness, self-indulgence

   excess in action and immoderate indulgence of bodily appetites, especially in passion or indulgence