verb

sidle

SYDL

Sidle (verb) means to move sideways, often in a shy, cautious, or sneaky way. Example: “He sidled up to the counter, hoping no one would notice him.”

verb

To move sideways, often in a shy, cautious, or sneaky way.

"He sidled up to the counter, hoping no one would notice him."

"She sidled out of the meeting before anyone could ask her a question."

How to use sidle

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo edge sideways somewhere quietly or shyly.

Common pairings

sidle up to sidle away

Word forms

sidled past tense, sidles plural, Sidles plural, sidles singular

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Fill the gap

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He _____ up to the counter, hoping no one would notice him.

Etymology

Likely a back-formation from the older adverb "sideling" ("in a sideways direction"), reshaped with the "-le" verb ending.

Synonyms

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sashay

Related words

outing excursion swagger sashay jaunt junket ruffle prance

Rhymes for sidle

idle bridle

See all rhymes for sidle →

Frequently asked questions

What does “sidle” mean?

The word “sidle” means to move sideways, often in a shy, cautious, or sneaky way. In plain terms, to edge sideways somewhere quietly or shyly.

How do you pronounce “sidle”?

“Sidle” is pronounced SYDL (/ˈsaɪdəl/ in IPA).

How do you use “sidle” in a sentence?

Here is “sidle” used in a sentence: “He sidled up to the counter, hoping no one would notice him.”

What part of speech is “sidle”?

“Sidle” is a verb.

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