NYT Dictionary

JINGO

/ˈd͡ʒɪŋ.ɡoʊ/
NounJIN-gojin-go · 2 syllablesGrade 10

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2021, 2023, 2024

Meaning

One who supports policy favouring war.

Etymology

Origin: Unknown

From the minced oath by jingo, which was used in a music hall song, written ca. 1878 by G. W. Hunt, that supported Britain's then belligerent attitude towards Russia. In this context, a euphemism for Jesus, influenced by the meaningless presto-jingo used by conjurors. A connection with the Basque jainko (“god”) has been suggested, but evidence is lacking.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

chauvinistjingoistpatrioteeraggressiveantagonisticbellicosebelligerentbigotbloodthirstybloody

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 2 recorded puzzles:

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