jigsaw

American  

[jig-saw] / ˈdʒɪgˌsɔ /

noun

1. Also jig saw an electric machine saw with a narrow blade mounted vertically in a frame, for cutting curves or other difficult lines or patterns.

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verb (used with object)

jigsawed, jigsawed, jigsawn, jigsawing

1. to cut or form with a jigsaw.

adjective

1. formed by or as if by a jigsaw.

   jigsaw ornamentation.

jigsaw British  

/ ˈdʒɪɡˌsɔː /

noun

1. a mechanical saw with a fine steel blade for cutting intricate curves in sheets of material

2. See jigsaw puzzle

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Etymology

Origin of jigsaw

First recorded in 1870–75; jig ² + saw ¹

Explanation

A jigsaw is a sharp power tool that's used for cutting curvy lines in wood or other materials. While most saws can only cut in a straight line, a jigsaw makes it easier to cut complicated patterns and shapes. If you were making a jigsaw puzzle out of wood, you'd use a jigsaw. In fact, this is where the "jigsaw puzzle," (which is also simply called a jigsaw), got its name. The original meaning comes from the word jig and its sense of "up and down motion," which describes the way a jigsaw moves as it cuts.

Example Sentences

An older sister turns to sewing her bin of fabric scraps into a quilt top or putting together a jigsaw puzzle to get her dopamine.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Consumer advocates say the Los Angeles complaints are one piece in a nationwide jigsaw of complaints and lawsuits alleging State Farm is unfairly limiting claims payouts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

Gibraltar was not covered by the UK's 2021 trade deal with the EU, and the UK has previously described it as the "last piece of the EU exit jigsaw".

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

My goal when I get home is a jigsaw puzzle — with either a podcast or jazz on in the background — until probably like 2 in the morning.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2026

Kingshaw stood up, tipping the jigsaw puzzle on to the floor in his agitation.

From "I'm the King of the Castle" by Susan Hill

Related Words

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