jiffy

American  

[jif-ee] / ˈdʒɪf i /

Also jiff

noun

Informal.

plural

jiffies

1. a very short time; moment.

   to get dressed in a jiffy.

   Synonyms:

   trice, second, flash, instant

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jiffy British  

/ ˈdʒɪfɪ, dʒɪf /

noun

1. informal a very short time

   wait a jiffy

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jiffy Idioms  

1. see under in a flash.

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Etymology

Origin of jiffy

First recorded in 1770–80; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

Freeman and Brailsford maintained the bag contained legal flu medication, and ultimately a parliamentary committee said it was unable to determine what was inside the jiffy bag.

From BBC • Nov. 20, 2023

They cool in a jiffy and are ready to serve almost as fast as you make them.

From Salon • Nov. 2, 2023

In another jiffy, he and his master, sky high, are toasting one another and the success of their venture.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 25, 2023

However, a quantum computer would be able to factor the huge number much faster than an ordinary computer, enabling Eve to unscramble the message in a jiffy, too.

From Science Magazine • May 5, 2022

“You rogue! You traitor! Jo, how could you?” cried the three girls, as Snodgrass led her friend triumphantly forth, and producing both a chair and a badge, installed him in a jiffy.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott