Jitneys is a term typically used in North America describing a particular type of small passenger vehicle used for public transportation. The spelling of "jitneys" is based on the English language's irregularities in spelling rules as it does not follow the traditional pronunciation methodology. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is / ˈdʒɪt.niz /, with the primary accent on the first syllable "jit" and the second syllable "neys" pronounced like "knees". While the spelling is non-intuitive, it is widely accepted and used across North America.
Jitneys is a term that refers to a form of informal, privately-owned, and typically unregulated public transportation. This term is primarily used in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. Jitneys are usually small, privately-owned vehicles, such as buses or vans, which operate on fixed routes or between specified destinations.
The concept of jitneys originated in the early 20th century when private individuals began providing transportation services for a fee in areas where regular public transportation was limited or nonexistent. Jitneys are often known for their flexibility in terms of route selection and fare negotiation, as they can deviate from a fixed route or pick up passengers along the way.
Due to their informal nature, jitneys often operate without a specific schedule or fixed stops. They are commonly found in urban areas or regions where public transportation options are limited, efficiently meeting the needs of commuters who require affordable and accessible transportation.
However, since jitneys are generally unregulated, they can sometimes pose safety concerns or face legal and operational challenges. Nonetheless, they continue to serve as an alternative means of transportation for many individuals, particularly low-income populations who rely on jitneys as their primary mode of travel.
The word "jitney" originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It was used to refer to a small, inexpensive or unofficial bus or vehicle used for transportation.
There are a few theories about the etymology of the word:
1. One theory suggests that "jitney" comes from the slang term "jitney" or "jitney car" used in American baseball in the late 19th century. It referred to a cheap ticket (jot, meaning a small amount or a tip) sold for unreserved seating in and around the outfield. This term then transitioned to refer to a small bus or vehicle used for transportation.
2. Another theory proposes that "jitney" derives from the French word "jeton" meaning "token" or "coin". This term was sometimes used in the context of transportation fares, and it might have been Americanized and transformed into "jitney".