The word "jilt" is spelled with four letters, starting with the letter "j" and pronounced as /dʒɪlt/. The IPA transcription further breaks down the phonemes in the word, revealing that the "j" sound is a voiced palato-alveolar affricate, while the "i" is a short vowel sound. The "l" is an alveolar lateral approximant, and the "t" is an unvoiced alveolar stop. Overall, the word is relatively easy to spell, with no silent letters or tricky combinations.
Jilt is a verb that means to abruptly and unkindly reject or abandon a romantic partner or lover, typically in a callous or indifferent manner, often without any warning or explanation. The act of jilting someone implies a sudden and decisive end to a relationship, thereby causing emotional distress and hurt to the person being jilted. The term is often associated with a sense of betrayal or betrayal of trust.
When someone jilts another person, they may display a lack of consideration or empathy for the other person's feelings, leaving them feeling confused, heartbroken, and rejected. The jilter may choose to sever all ties with the partner completely, cutting off all communication and contact, or they may simply distance themselves without any explanation. This behavior can cause significant emotional turmoil for the person who has been jilted, leaving them filled with sadness, anger, and a sense of loss.
Jilting can occur for various reasons, such as a change of heart, fear of commitment, the attraction of another person, or personal issues and insecurities. Regardless of the cause, being jilted can have a profound impact on an individual's self-esteem and future relationships, as it can leave them questioning their worthiness and ability to trust others.
In summary, to jilt someone means to reject or abandon a romantic partner in a sudden, unkind, and thoughtless manner, causing emotional distress and feelings of betrayal in the person being rejected.
• A young woman who lightly trifles with her lover; a name of contempt for a young woman.
• To give hopes to a lover and then reject him; to practise deception in love.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "jilt" originated in the late 17th century and its etymology is uncertain. However, there are a few theories regarding its origins.
One theory suggests that "jilt" may have derived from the Scottish word "jillet", meaning a flirtatious or coquettish girl. This Scottish term can be traced back to the Middle English word "gillot" or "gyllette", which meant a young woman or maid.
Another possibility is that "jilt" evolved from "gillot", which also referred to a young man without steady employment. Over time, "gillot" may have transformed into "jillet" or "jilt", with the latter term carrying the connotation of a woman who toys with men's affections.
Yet another theory connects the word to the French term "jolie", meaning pretty or attractive.