English Lexicon

Carjack

/ˈkɑːr.dʒæk/
verbnounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As verb
  1. 1

    To forcibly take a vehicle from its owner, typically using threats or violence.

    "The suspect attempted to carjack a woman at a gas station."
As noun
  1. 1

    An act of stealing a vehicle by force.

    "The rise in carjacks has led to increased security measures in urban areas."

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Synonyms (3)
Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'carjack' is a blend of 'car' and 'hijack', originating in the late 20th century in American English. It reflects the act of stealing a vehicle by force or intimidation, evolving from the broader concept of hijacking, which initially referred to the seizure of aircraft.

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