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sidle

verb

/ˈsaɪdəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sidle

To turn or slide in a sudden, uncontrolled and significant shift in direction.
"Every day, I watch the deer sidle up to the lake for a drink."

Detailed meaning of sidle

When someone sidles, they move sideways or slink along, typically in a subtle or furtive attempt to avoid drawing attention or to approach a situation or individual without causing a noticeable disturbance. This action involves careful steps and a deliberate avoidance of direct or overt movements, making it a method commonly associated with navigating through delicate or sensitive circumstances.

Example sentences containing sidle

1. As the car hit the icy patch, it began to sidle abruptly, making everyone inside scream.
2. The dancer managed to sidle elegantly across the stage, captivating the audience's awe.
3. I watched the cat sidle stealthily, its eyes fixed on the unsuspecting bird.
4. She tried to sidle away quietly, but the creaky floor betrayed her escape.
5. As he felt the ground sidle beneath him, fear surged through his veins.
6. The boat began to sidle wildly as the storm unleashed its fierce winds.

History and etymology of sidle

The verb 'sidle' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'sidlen,' which meant 'to move or go sideways.' Its precise origins are somewhat obscure, but 'sidle' aptly describes the action of turning or sliding in a sudden, uncontrolled, and significant shift in direction, often with a sense of caution or stealth. The term conveys a sense of subtlety and indirectness, as if one were attempting to approach or depart from a situation without attracting undue attention. 'Sidle' is a word that suggests a certain degree of grace and finesse in maneuvering, particularly in situations where a more overt or direct movement might be less desirable. It captures the idea of moving sideways or obliquely, often with a touch of hesitation or wariness.

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Further usage examples of sidle

1. During the quake, we felt the earth sidle, an unnerving shift beneath our feet.
2. The plate seemed to sidle off the table, shattering into a mosaic of ceramic pieces.
3. As the moon appeared, shadows began to sidle, casting eerie shapes around us.
4. He tried to sidle through the crowd unnoticed but was stopped by a familiar voice.
5. We should sidle closer to the stage to get a better view.
6. It's not polite to sidle into a conversation uninvited.
7. I saw the raccoon sidle towards the trash can, looking for food.
8. Don't just sidle in; announce your presence!
9. Be careful when you sidle past the sleeping dog, he might wake up.
10. It's easy to sidle away from responsibilities, but it's not the right thing to do.
11. In the dark, we could sidle up to the enemy camp unnoticed.
12. It's amusing to watch the children sidle into the kitchen when they smell cookies baking.
13. You can sidle over to the buffet and help yourself.
14. He is going to sidle towards the corner, where the light is best for his painting.
15. When you sidle up to the bar, make sure to order their signature cocktail.
16. At parties, people often sidle up to the food table for some snacks.
17. I always sidle up to the window to watch the sunrise.
18. Watch the fox sidle towards its prey with a calculated approach.
19. She always knew how to sidle her way into a conversation.
20. They love to sidle around the garden, taking in the beautiful scenery.
21. You can sidle up to the door and listen in, but don't get caught!
22. The kittens sidle against each other for warmth during the cold nights.