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Skidding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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skidding

[ˈskɪdɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

on ice

To slide along a surface in an uncontrolled manner, typically on ice.

Synonyms

glide, slide, slip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
skidding

This term is often used when talking about a sudden, uncontrolled slide, usually of a vehicle or a person on a slippery surface. It carries a sense of danger or loss of control.

  • The car went into a skid on the icy road.
  • He lost his balance and started skidding down the slope.
slide

The term 'slide' refers to moving smoothly over a surface. This can be intentional and controlled, or accidental and potentially dangerous. It can be used in a variety of contexts, ranging from sports to casual descriptions.

  • The children love to slide down the playground slide.
  • Be careful on the wet floor or you might slide.
slip

This word is best used to describe a sudden loss of footing, often leading to a fall. It often includes an element of surprise or accident and can have a slightly negative connotation.

  • She slipped on the ice and fell.
  • Be cautious not to slip on the wet bathroom floor.
glide

Using 'glide' is appropriate when describing a smooth, effortless movement, often through the air or on a surface. It generally has a positive or neutral connotation.

  • The bird seemed to glide effortlessly through the sky.
  • She watched the ice skaters glide across the rink.

Examples of usage

  • The car skidded on the icy road.
  • I nearly fell while skidding on the frozen lake.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Transportation

  • Skidding can be more dangerous when driving on wet or icy roads, often causing accidents.
  • Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) in cars help prevent skidding by allowing tires to maintain better grip.

Sports

  • In skiing, a 'skid' can be controlled to navigate turns without losing too much speed.
  • Skidding is also a technique in motorsport racing where drivers intentionally lose traction to take tight corners.

Physics

  • Skidding occurs due to the forces of friction and inertia; when the friction isn't strong enough, things slide.
  • The coefficient of friction between surfaces plays a major role in how easily something can skid.

Safety

  • Proper tire maintenance is essential to minimize the chances of skidding, especially on wet roads.
  • Learning how to control skids can be an important skill in defensive driving courses.

Origin of 'skidding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'skid' comes from the Old Norse word 'skíð', meaning a plank or slice.
  • It originally described the action of gliding or sliding smoothly over a surface.

The word 'skidding' originates from the Middle English word 'skid' which means 'a log'. In the 17th century, it evolved to mean 'slide' or 'glide'. The concept of skidding on ice has been around for centuries, with the term being commonly used in contexts related to slippery surfaces and lack of control.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,730, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.