Definition of "yank" in English

noun

1. A sudden, vigorous pull (sometimes defined as mass times jerk, or rate of change of force).

   • He unjammed the rope with a short yank.

2. (slang) A masturbation session.

3. (slang, MLE) alternative form of shank (“stabbing weapon”).

verb

1. (transitive) To pull (something) with a quick, strong action.

2. (transitive, informal) To remove from distribution.

   • They yanked the product as soon as they learned it was unsafe.

noun

1. (often derogatory) Alternative letter-case form of Yank (“Yankee”).