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Sidewinder: meaning, definitions and examples

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sidewinder

 

[ ˈsaɪdˌwaɪndər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

animal

A sidewinder is a species of rattlesnake known for its unique method of movement, where it moves sideways across sandy terrain. This adaptation allows it to navigate effectively in its arid desert habitat while minimizing contact with the hot ground. Sidewinders are characterized by their pale color, which provides camouflage against the sandy substrates they inhabit. They have a distinctive triangular head and can reach lengths of up to three feet. Their venom is potent, making them effective hunters of small mammals and lizards.

Synonyms

rattlesnake, reptile

Examples of usage

  • The sidewinder slithered effortlessly across the sandy dunes.
  • She spotted a sidewinder sunbathing on the rocks.
  • Sidewinders are well-adapted to desert environments.
Context #2 | Noun

military vehicle

The term sidewinder can also refer to a type of air-to-air missile developed by the United States. The AIM-9 Sidewinder is a heat-seeking missile that is widely used by various military forces around the world. Known for its agility and effectiveness in combat, the Sidewinder is designed to engage and destroy enemy aircraft. It was first introduced in the 1950s and has undergone several upgrades to improve its capabilities and increase its range. Its reliability and performance make it a staple in air combat.

Synonyms

armament, missile

Examples of usage

  • The fighter jet launched a sidewinder towards the enemy aircraft.
  • Military personnel conducted drills on the effective use of the Sidewinder missile.
  • Innovations in technology have enhanced the Sidewinder's targeting systems.

Translations

Translations of the word "sidewinder" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cascavel

🇮🇳 साइडवाइंडर

🇩🇪 Seitenwinder

🇮🇩 ular sidewinder

🇺🇦 боковий змій

🇵🇱 sidewinder

🇯🇵 サイドワインダー

🇫🇷 serpent à côté

🇪🇸 sidewinder

🇹🇷 sidewinder

🇰🇷 사이드와인더

🇸🇦 ثعبان ساید ويندر

🇨🇿 sidewinder

🇸🇰 sidewinder

🇨🇳 侧风蛇

🇸🇮 sidewinder

🇮🇸 sidewinder

🇰🇿 бүйірлі жылан

🇬🇪 საინვაიდერი

🇦🇿 sidewinder

🇲🇽 sidewinder

Word origin

The word 'sidewinder' originates from the distinctive side-to-side movement of the snake as it navigates through its desert environment. The name is derived from the combination of 'side', indicating its lateral movement, and 'winder', which describes its coiling motion. The term first appeared in the early 20th century, gaining prominence as naturalists and scientists began to study and classify the unique species of rattlesnakes found in North America. The military application of the term came later, with the development of the AIM-9 missile in the 1950s, being named after the snake due to its ability to quickly change direction and effectively target opponents. Over time, 'sidewinder' has become a recognized term in both biological and military contexts, illustrating the adaptability and effectiveness of both the snake and the missile.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,808, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.