jackstraw

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Word: Jackstraw

Part of Speech: Noun

Basic Definition: A jackstraw is a thin strip of wood that is used in a game called jackstraws. The game involves dropping these sticks onto a flat surface and then trying to pick them up without moving the others.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: You can use the word "jackstraw" when talking about the game itself or when referring to the thin sticks used to play the game.
• How to use in a sentence: "We played jackstraws at the picnic, and it was a lot of fun trying to pick up the sticks without causing a mess."

Example Sentence:

• "The children enjoyed a game of jackstraws, carefully lifting the colorful sticks one by one."

Advanced Usage:

In a more advanced context, "jackstraw" can also refer to a situation that is chaotic or disordered, similar to how the sticks lie when they are scattered.

Word Variants:

• Jackstraws (plural): Refers to the multiple sticks used in the game.
• Jackstraw game: Refers to the actual game played with the sticks.

Different Meanings:

While "jackstraw" primarily refers to the game and its pieces, in some contexts, it can also imply something that is thrown together haphazardly or in disarray, similar to the way the sticks are scattered.

Synonyms:

• Pick-up sticks: A more commonly known name for the same game.
• Sticks: Referring to the jackstraws in informal contexts.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly associated with "jackstraw." However, the idea of picking up sticks can metaphorically relate to situations where someone must carefully manage a complex or delicate task.

Summary:

To sum up, "jackstraw" refers to a thin wooden stick used in the game of jackstraws. It can also describe a chaotic situation when used metaphorically.

Academic

Noun

1. a thin strip of wood used in playing the game of jackstraws

Synonyms

• spillikin