dial. and U.S. [f. YANK v.] a. Sc. A sudden sharp blow or stroke. b. U.S. A sudden vigorous pull, a jerk.
1818. Hogg, Brownie of Bodsbeck, xiv. II. 18. I took up my neive an’ gae him a yank on the haffat.
1888. Gunter, Mr. Potter, viii. 100. Her brother giving her a masculine yank [from the gondola], and jumping her upon the steps.
1913. M. Roberts, Salt of the Sea, xviii. 447. He gave the twine a yank.
