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Sideways Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sideways

[ˈsaɪdˌweɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

viewing direction

In a sideways position or direction, especially with one side forward.

Synonyms

lateral, sidelong, sideward.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sideways

Sideways is often used to describe movement or position that is to the left or right rather than forwards or backwards. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.

  • He glanced sideways to see if anyone was watching.
  • The car skidded sideways on the icy road.
sideward

Sideward is less commonly used and describes movement or direction toward the side. It is typically more formal and might be seen in descriptive writing.

  • She took a small step sideward to avoid the puddle.
  • The crab moved sideward along the shore.
sidelong

Sidelong usually describes a quick or shy sideways look. It often carries a connotation of suspicion, curiosity, or timidity.

  • She gave him a sidelong glance to see his reaction.
  • His sidelong look suggested he was hiding something.
lateral

Lateral is a more formal term often used in technical, medical, or scientific contexts to describe movement, positions, or relationships that are horizontal rather than vertical.

  • The patient's x-ray showed a lateral shift in the spine.
  • The company is making a lateral move to expand into new markets.

Examples of usage

  • He was looking sideways at her.
  • She parked the car sideways across the driveway.
  • The tree fell sideways after the storm.
Context #2 | Adjective

position

Directed or moving to one side.

Synonyms

lateral, sidelong, sideward.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sideways

Used to describe a direction to the left or right, most commonly when referencing movement or orientation. Often informal.

  • He glanced sideways to see if anyone was watching.
  • The car skidded sideways on the icy road.
sideward

Less commonly used, it means moving or directed to the side. Often interchangeable with sideways but slightly more formal.

  • The snake moved sideward through the grass.
  • He took a sideward step to avoid the puddle.
lateral

Used in more formal or technical contexts to describe movement or position to the side. Common in medical, scientific, and professional settings.

  • The surgeon made a lateral incision on the patient's abdomen.
  • The lateral movement of the tectonic plates can cause earthquakes.
sidelong

Used to describe a look or glance that is quick and often suggestive of suspicion or secretive observation. Has a slightly negative or secretive connotation.

  • She gave him a sidelong glance as she walked past.
  • His sidelong stare made her feel uncomfortable.

Examples of usage

  • The sideways glance she gave him was full of suspicion.
  • He walked with a sideways gait.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many fables and stories, characters often find themselves moving sideways to escape danger or change their fate.
  • 'Sideways' is often used in literature to symbolize avoiding direct confrontation or taking an indirect approach.

Psychology

  • People often demonstrate lateral thinking, which involves moving 'sideways' through ideas instead of straightforward logic.
  • In non-verbal communication, turning your body sideways can indicate discomfort or avoidance in social interactions.

Art

  • Artists sometimes use sideways perspectives to create unique visual experiences, making the viewer feel as if they’re viewing the artwork from different angles.
  • Sideways movement in dance can express emotions like confusion or evasion, distinct from straightforward movements.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'sideways' became popular with the release of the 2004 film 'Sideways,' which explored themes of friendship and self-discovery.
  • In gaming, character movements and strategies often involve ‘sideways’ maneuvers, adding complexity to gameplay.

Origin of 'sideways'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sideways' comes from Old English 'sideweard,' meaning 'toward the side.'
  • It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe lateral movement.
  • Related terms include 'side' and 'way,' which both give context to the direction implied by the word.

The word 'sideways' originated in the 16th century as a combination of 'side' and 'ways'. It has been used to describe a position or direction to one side, and it is commonly used in English to indicate a movement or orientation that is not straight ahead.

See also: aside, beside, downside, inside, outsider, side, sidearm, sidebar, sidekick, sideline, sidelong, sides, sidewalk, sideward, siding, subside.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,582, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.