Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˈɪŋkɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "jinking" is spelled using the phonemes /dʒɪŋkɪŋ/. The first sound, represented by the letter "j," is a voiced palato-alveolar affricate. This is followed by the vowel sound /ɪ/ as in "sit" and the nasal consonant /ŋ/ as in "sing." The final "k" sound is unvoiced, produced by blocking the airflow with the back of the tongue. "Jinking" is commonly used in sports to describe a quick and sudden change of direction by a player.
Jinking refers to a quick and sudden movement or change of direction, typically executed by a moving object or person, to avoid a direct hit or collision. It is a term commonly used in sports, particularly in activities that involve fast-paced movements or tactics such as football, rugby, and combat sports.
In sports, particularly in football or rugby, jinking is often employed by an attacking player to deceive the opposition or defenders. By displaying swift and unpredictable changes in direction, the player aims to dodge defenders and create space or opportunities for themselves or their teammates to advance or score. Jinking requires agility, speed, and technical skill, as well as the ability to make split-second decisions to outmaneuver opponents.
The term "jinking" can also be used outside of sporting contexts. In everyday language, it describes a person's quick movements or changes in direction to avoid obstacles, collisions, or potentially dangerous situations. For example, one might say, "She jinked through the crowded street, narrowly avoiding a collision with another person."
Overall, jinking encompasses the idea of evading and maneuvering to outwit opponents, obstacles, or threats by making rapid and unpredictable changes in direction or movement. Whether in the realm of sports or in daily life, jinking denotes agility, quick thinking, and adaptability in the face of challenges.
The word "jinking" originated in the early 19th century in Scotland. It is derived from the Scots word "jink", meaning to dodge or dart quickly. "Jink" itself likely comes from the Middle Dutch word "jenken", meaning to make a quick movement or to flicker or sparkle. The term "jinking" is primarily associated with evasive maneuvers or sudden and unpredictable changes in direction, often used in the context of sports or military tactics.
