jake leg

noun

ˈjāk-ˌleg How to pronounce jake leg (audio)
-ˌlāg
: a paralysis caused by drinking improperly distilled or contaminated liquor

Word History

Etymology

jake grain alcohol flavored with an alcoholic extract of ginger

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jake leg was in 1932

Dictionary Entries Near jake leg

jake

jake leg

jakes

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Cite this Entry

“Jake leg.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jake%20leg. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

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Medical Definition

jake leg

noun
ˈjā-ˌkleg, -ˌklāg How to pronounce jake leg (audio)
: a paralysis caused by drinking improperly distilled or contaminated liquor
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