hijack
|hi-jack|
/ˈhaɪˌdʒæk/
seize control
Etymology
'hijack' originates from American English, specifically the slang term 'highway jack,' where 'highway' referred to roads and 'jack' meant 'to rob or hold up.'
'highway jack' transformed into the modern English word 'hijack' in the early 20th century.
Initially, it meant 'to rob on the highway,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'seizing control of a vehicle or system.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to illegally seize a vehicle, aircraft, or ship while in transit.
The terrorists attempted to hijack the plane.
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Verb 2
to take control of something for one's own purposes, often by force or manipulation.
The hackers hijacked the company's website.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41