astride
UK: əˈstraɪd | US: əˈstraɪd
adv. with one leg on each side of something
prep. extending across or on both sides of
The word "astride" combines the prefix "a-" (derived from Old English, meaning "on" or "in") with the root "stride" (from Old English "strīdan," meaning "to take a long step"). The fusion reflects the physical posture of straddling or spanning something, such as sitting on horseback or standing across a divide. Over time, it evolved to describe both literal and figurative spanning.
She sat astride the horse, gripping the reins tightly.
The bridge stretches astride the river, connecting the two towns.
He stood astride the narrow path, blocking the way.
The policy aims to balance astride economic growth and environmental protection.
The mountain range lies astride the border between the two countries.