carjack

[kahr-jak]

verb (used without object)

1. to forcibly steal a vehicle from a motorist.

verb (used with object)

1. to forcibly steal (a vehicle), or to victimize (a driver) in this way.

carjack

/ ˈkɑːˌdʒæk /

verb

1. (tr) to attack (a driver in a car) in order to rob the driver or to steal the car for another crime

Other Word Forms

• carjacker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of carjack¹

1990-95; blend of car ¹ + hijack

Word History and Origins

Origin of carjack¹

C20: _car + ( _hi ) _jack

Example Sentences

Prowell has yet to enter a plea to charges of murder, attempted murder, carjacking, robbery, burglary and assault.

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The president said on Monday, however, that Memphis is "overrun" with carjackings, robberies and shootings, as well as other crimes.

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Authorities say two suspects carjacked a truck in Lancaster and opened fire on its owner before the police gave chase.

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The chase began with a carjacking in Lancaster about 9:45 p.m., according to the L.A.

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"But overall there's an unmistakable and large drop in violence since the summer of 2023, when there were peaks in homicide, gun assaults, robbery, and carjacking."

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Related Words

• commandeer 
• kidnap 
• steal