manoeuvre

UK: məˈnuːvə | US: məˈnuːvər

Definition

  1. n. 1. A planned movement or series of moves requiring skill and precision.

  2. n. 2. A large-scale military exercise.

  3. vt. 1. To move or guide something skillfully or carefully.

  4. vi. 2. To perform a series of strategic movements.

Structure
man <hand, from Latin *manus*>oeuvre <work, from Latin *opera*>
Etymology

The word "manoeuvre" traces back to Old French manoeuvre (manual work), derived from Latin manu operari ("to work by hand"). The morpheme man reflects the concept of manual action, while oeuvre (related to "opera") denotes labor or effort. Originally tied to physical labor, its meaning expanded to strategic movements in military and general contexts, emphasizing skillful control.

Examples

  1. The pilot executed a perfect manoeuvre to avoid the storm.

  2. Military manoeuvres were conducted near the border.

  3. She manoeuvred the car into the tight parking space.

  4. The negotiation required careful diplomatic manoeuvring.

  5. The chess player’s clever manoeuvre secured victory.