jarhead

A member of the United States Marine Corps. When used by civilians it could be considered derogatory, but it is used often among Marines.

The term originates from the "high and tight" haircut that many Marines have, which makes their head look like a jar. It did NOT originate from their uniform or cover.

"Oorah jarhead, semper fi!"

jarhead by Jay November 14, 2005

Jarhead

According to Heritage Press International: Jarhead: For roughly 50 years, sailors had little luck in their effort to insult Marines by calling them Gyrenes. So, during World War II sailors began referring to Marines as Jarheads. Presumably the high collar on the Marine Dress Blues uniform made a Marine's head look like it was sticking out of the top of a Mason jar. Marines were not insulted. Instead, they embraced the new moniker as a term of utmost respect.

Contrary to uncommon knowledge, Marines are not insulted by being called "Jarhead" - they embraced the term with the upmost respect.

Jarhead by Beau R. May 6, 2019

jarhead

A term used to describe a US Marine. Although some believe the term is of recent origin (Gulf War), it has been around for a long time (at least since World War II). It has nothing to do with haircuts, hats or headshape. It refers to the Marines propensity to follow orders, regardless of consequences or personal safety. Because of their single-minded willingness to put their duty before themselves, Marines are said to have jarheads...hard on the outside and empty on the inside. It is a good thing there are such men.

Running up a hill to take a machine gun nest is not something that most people would do, but a jarhead will do it everytime he is ordered.

jarhead by Headshot1k May 1, 2010

jarhead

jar-head (n) a member of the United States Marine Corps..... OOooraaAAHH!!

Well are you a jarhead?

jarhead by Koko February 10, 2003

jarhead

A word used by both ordinary people and marines to talk about marines. The term jarhead came out because of the very short hair cuts which resembles that of a jar.

1. Every single jarhead made the mistake of joining the corps.
2. I was made to be a jarhead, i was made to kick ass "Oorah".

jarhead by The Kevin December 28, 2005

jarhead

The term "jarhead" comes from the shape of the Old Corps covers (hats) that were worn by Marines. The poster is assuming that it is derrogatory, but in fact Marines call each other jarhead as a matter of course.

jarhead by davewojta October 28, 2003

jarhead

Term used by US Marines, meaning Marine

"'ey Jarhead."
"Hey."

jarhead by Suzy Martin June 18, 2004