The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word LUNGEING
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "making a jab" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case making a jab = lungeing.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does LUNGEING mean?
LUNGEING verb- To (cause to make) a sudden forward movement (present participle: lunging).
- To longe or work a horse in a circle around a handler (present participle: lunging or lungeing).
- The act of one who lunges; a lunge.