What does jutted mean?
Jutted is the past tense of jut, a verb meaning to project or extend sharply outward from another surface. It describes an object, feature, or geographical formation that stands out from its surroundings, often with a pointed, angular, or irregular shape. For example, a rocky promontory may jut into the sea, while a person's chin may jut forward. The word is especially common in descriptive writing about landscapes, buildings, architecture, and physical features. It conveys a stronger and more visually forceful sense of projection than simply being outside or attached. Although generally neutral, jutted can acquire a negative connotation when describing an aggressive posture or an intrusive structure. The present-tense form is jut, while jutting is the usual participial form in phrases such as a jutting cliff.
verbProtruded or projected sharply outward from a surface.
- To project or protrude sharply from a surface or surrounding area.
"The rocky cliff juts out above the restless sea."
"A narrow tongue of land juts out into the lake."
"Her chin juts slightly forward, giving her expression a determined look."
A headland that juts into the sea creates a prominent landmark visible from far away.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of jutted
The word derives from the English verb jut, which is attested from the Middle English period and continues the earlier English sense of projecting or extending. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, and the verb may preserve an element also reflected in older forms connected with projecting outward. Modern usage retains the strong visual sense of something standing prominently beyond a surface.
Related word forms
How jutted is actually used
The past tense is used for completed actions, while the participial form 'jutting' often describes a continuing shape or feature. The word is commonly used in geographical, architectural, and descriptive writing.
Easily confused with jutted
Jetted means moved rapidly by jet propulsion, while jitted means projected or protruded outward.