Slither: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the movement of a snake or something that moves in a twisting, serpentine way.

• The snake slithered through the grass
• He slithered down the muddy hill

Used to describe smooth, continuous movement, often with minimal effort, like ice skating or flying without flapping wings.

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

Used to describe movement over a smooth surface, often downward or in a playful manner.

• The children loved to slide down the hill
• He slid the book across the table

Used to describe moving in a stealthy or guilty manner, often to avoid being noticed; has a negative connotation.

• The cat slinked through the shadows
• He slinked away when no one was looking

Typically used to describe the way a snake or something snake-like moves, often in a winding and smooth manner.

• The snake slithered through the grass
• The slime slithered down the wall

Used to describe smooth, continuous movement, usually with little to no effort. Often used for birds, skaters, or objects moving through air or water.

• The eagle glided effortlessly across the sky
• The boat glided across the calm lake

Refers to moving easily and without interruption over a surface, usually in a controlled manner. Often used for objects or people moving on a smooth surface.

• The children slid down the snowy hill
• The glass slid across the table

Often implies moving in a quiet, sneaky, or guilty manner. Can have a negative connotation.

• He tried to slink away unnoticed
• The cat slinked through the shadows