Meandering: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe a winding path, road, or stream that does not follow a straight course. It can also describe someone speaking or thinking in a way that wanders from the main point.

• The meandering river carved out a beautiful valley
• His meandering explanation made it hard to follow his main point

Commonly used to describe something that follows a course full of bends and turns. Often used for roads and rivers, it highlights the serpentine motion.

• The hiking trail winds through the dense forest
• The river winds its way down to the ocean

Ideal for describing something that bends or contorts sharply and can also be used figuratively for unexpected changes or complications.

• The twist in the road ahead is quite sharp
• The plot twist at the end of the movie was surprising

Best used to indicate a change in direction or position. It can be literal, as in changing direction, or figurative, as in changing topics in conversation.

• Take a turn at the next intersection to reach the park
• The conversation took an unexpected turn when he mentioned his travels

Used to describe a winding or indirect path, either physically or in speech or thought. It suggests a casual, relaxed movement without a specific destination.

• The river was meandering through the countryside
• Her writing was meandering, but it was enjoyable to read

Used to describe speaking or writing at length in a confused or disorganized way. It often has a negative connotation, implying the speaker is going on without focus or purpose.

• He tends to ramble when he’s nervous
• Her letter was a ramble of disconnected thoughts

Used when someone temporarily moves away from the main topic of discussion or writing. Often formal in tone.

• He started to discuss the finance report, but then he digressed into talking about his weekend
• Let me digress for a moment to explain the history behind this practice

Used to describe moving or traveling without a fixed course, often casually or aimlessly. It can also describe someone’s thoughts drifting away from the main subject.

• They wandered around the city, exploring different neighborhoods
• My mind started to wander during the long meeting

When describing something that winds or twists without a specific direction, often used for rivers, roads, or paths. It gives a sense of a leisurely, winding motion.

• The meandering river flowed gently through the valley.
• They enjoyed meandering through the old streets of the town.

Used when the path, road, or any other line comes back upon itself, forming a circular or nearly circular shape. It often implies a returning to a starting point or encompassing something.

• The jogging trail loops around the park.
• She tied the rope into a loop.

Used when there is a specific change in direction, often referring to roads, rivers, or objects. It implies a clear and often sharp turn.

• The road takes a sharp bend just past the bridge.
• There is a bend in the river where the current speeds up.

Appropriate for describing a smooth, continuous, and gradual change in direction. It can be used for roads, design elements, and even body shapes.

• The elegant curve of the staircase added beauty to the room.
• The car followed the gentle curve in the road.