Sliding: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used when referring to something moving smoothly along a surface, often implying some control or intent. It can be used both literally and metaphorically.

• She enjoyed sliding down the snowy hill
• His grades started sliding after he began skipping classes

Refers to moving smoothly and continuously without much effort. Often used for describing movement through the air or on surfaces like ice or water, typically with grace.

• The eagle was gliding high above the mountains
• The figure skater was gliding across the ice with perfect ease

Describes moving lightly over a surface, often barely touching it. Can refer to physical movement or the act of briefly reading or reviewing written material.

• The stone was skimming across the water
• She was skimming through the report to get the main points

Specifically refers to moving on ice or another surface using skates. Can be used metaphorically, often with a slightly negative connotation implying a lack of engagement or effort.

• They went skating on the frozen pond
• He's just skating by in his job, doing the bare minimum

This is a repetition of the first word. Please refer to the first entry for context and examples.

Typically used to describe a steep or narrow passage for quick descent, like a garbage chute or water chute, often in industrial or recreational settings.

• He dropped the package into the trash chute.
• The water chute at the park was thrilling for all the kids.

Refers to a slope or a slanted surface, and is often used in more formal or technical contexts.

• The trail becomes a steep incline after the first mile.
• They had to push the car up the incline.

Used to describe smooth, continuous movement along a surface. Often refers to objects moving on ice or tracks.

• The children were sliding down the icy hill.
• He was sliding the glass door open.

Usually describes a smooth, effortless movement through air or on a smooth surface. Often used for birds or things that appear almost weightless.

• The bird glided gracefully across the sky.
• She glided across the dance floor.

Refers to an uncontrolled, often quick movement that leads to falling or losing balance. Has a negative connotation.

• She slipped on the wet floor and fell.
• I slipped on the ice while walking to my car.

Describes a quick, light movement over a surface, often water. Can also refer to reading quickly.

• The stone skimmed across the surface of the pond.
• He skimmed through the report before the meeting.