Definition
An offset or step formed in a piece of sheet metal or structural member to allow it to fit flush over another piece of metal that overlaps it. The joggle creates a small, deliberate bend so two parts can lie flat against each other where they join.
Plain English
A small step bent into a piece of metal so it can sit flat on top of another piece without sticking up where they overlap.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft sheet-metal repair, skin-panel fitting, and maintenance drawings where overlapping metal parts must line up smoothly.
Derivation
From an old English word meaning to shake slightly or jolt, later applied to a small offset or notch in carpentry and metalwork. In aviation maintenance it kept the sense of a small, deliberate displacement — a slight step built into the part.
Why Pilots Care
A proper joggle helps repaired or fitted aircraft panels sit smoothly and carry loads as intended. A poor joggle can leave a bad fit, raised edge, or weak repair area.
Analogy
Think of two pieces of cardboard you want to tape together so the surface stays flat. If you press a small step into the top piece where it meets the bottom one, both surfaces end up level instead of one sitting proud of the other. That step is a joggle.
Intuition Check
Do not read joggle as shaking or wiggling. In aircraft maintenance, a joggle is a shaped step or offset made in a part.
Example Sentence 1
The technician formed a joggle in the doubler so it would lie flat against the fuselage skin at the overlap.
Example Sentence 2
Proper joggles keep overlapping patches from creating a ridge that would affect airflow.