What does jostle mean?
Jostle means to push or move roughly through a crowd, as when passengers jostle for space near a train door. It also has a figurative use meaning to compete vigorously for position, attention, influence, or advantage; political candidates, companies, and departments may all be described as jostling. The noun refers to a brief struggle involving pushing, crowding, or competitive maneuvering. Although the word can describe physical confrontation, it is often less severe than “fight” and more active than an ordinary “compete.” The expression “a bit of a jostle” suggests mild disorder or a crowded scramble. Jostle is especially useful when describing a situation in which people or groups repeatedly compete without an immediate decisive outcome. Its connection with jousting also gives it a vivid sense of energetic opposition, even when the rivalry is entirely figurative.
To push, shove, or move roughly in a crowd; to compete with others for position, attention, or advantage.
"Reporters jostled outside the courthouse for a statement."
The figurative sense is common in political, business, and social contexts.
An act of pushing, crowding, or competing roughly with others.
"There was a brief jostle as spectators rushed toward the front."
Often used for a short physical disturbance or, figuratively, competitive maneuvering.
The regular plural is used for separate acts of pushing, crowding, or competition.
"The negotiations were marked by several political jostles."
Jostle grew out of jousting: an activity associated with armored riders became the everyday scramble for space, position, and attention.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does jostle come from?
Jostle developed in the early 16th century as an alteration of the older form justle, meaning “to joust.” Joust came through Anglo-French and Medieval Latin from Latin justus, meaning “just” or “fair.” The word’s later sense of pushing or crowding developed from the idea of close physical contest, while its figurative sense reflects competition for advantage.
Related word forms
How jostle is actually used
The word is common in informal and figurative contexts, especially for competitive maneuvering in business, politics, or social life. It can suggest either energetic physical movement or less forceful rivalry for attention and advantage.
Easily confused with jostle
To jostle is to push, crowd, or compete for advantage, whereas to joust is to fight on horseback with a lance.