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Swerving Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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swerving

[ˈswɜrvɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

driving action

Swerving refers to the act of making a sudden, sharp turn or movement, often to avoid an obstacle or a hazard. It typically occurs while driving a vehicle but can also apply to other contexts where a quick change in direction is necessary. This maneuver is often associated with the need for rapid reflexes and can be indicative of urgent circumstances. Swerving can pose risks, both to the person making the maneuver and to other road users.

Synonyms

turn, veer, zigzag.

Examples of usage

  • He swerved to miss the deer crossing the road.
  • The car swerved violently as it hit a patch of ice.
  • She swerved off the path to avoid the puddle.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Traffic Safety

  • Swerving can be a critical action in driving, allowing drivers to avoid accidents and dangerous situations.
  • A study found that abrupt swerving is often a reaction to sudden road hazards, emphasizing the need for driver awareness.
  • Motorcyclists are trained in swerving techniques to avoid crashes, highlighting the skill required for different vehicles.

Cinema and Literature

  • The act of swerving is often depicted in action films during car chases, creating suspense and excitement.
  • Many novels use the metaphor of swerving to describe life choices and unexpected changes in a character's path.
  • In poetry, swerving can symbolize change or deviation from one's original course or intention.

Sports

  • Athletes often utilize swerving movements, like in soccer or basketball, to avoid defenders and enhance their performance.
  • In track and field, the ability to swerve while running can significantly improve speed and agility.
  • Swerving is also crucial in motorsports, where precise movements can be the difference between winning and losing.

Psychology

  • Swerving behavior can reflect human instinctual responses to fear or unexpected stimuli, showcasing our survival mechanisms.
  • In psychology, swerving can be linked to decision-making processes, where one might divert from their original plan after new information arises.
  • The concept of cognitive flexibility allows individuals to 'swerve' mentally, adjusting strategies in the face of challenges.

Origin of 'swerving'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Old English word 'sweorfa', which means to turn aside.
  • It has roots in various forms across languages, often linked to the idea of bending or turning.
  • The usage in English dates back to the late Middle Ages, evolving with the increase of transportation.

The word 'swerve' originates from the early 16th century, derived from the Middle English term 'swarven' which means to turn aside or deviate. This root can be traced back to Old English 'sweorfan', which meant to erase or remove. The evolution of the word reflected the growing emphasis on motion and directionality as vehicles became more common in everyday life. The term 'swerve' initially had a broader meaning, encompassing any abrupt change in direction, but over time it became more closely associated with driving and navigating obstacles. Today, the term is widely used in both literal and metaphorical contexts to describe sudden changes in direction in various scenarios.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,479 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.