sidle
UK: ˈsaɪd(ə)l | US: ˈsaɪd(ə)l
vi. to move sideways or obliquely, especially in a stealthy or furtive manner
vi. to approach someone indirectly or cautiously
sidle = sid<side> + le<frequentative verb suffix>
- sid<side>: From Old English sīd, meaning "side." Retains its core meaning of lateral direction.
- le<frequentative verb suffix>: A suffix used to form verbs indicating repeated or habitual action (e.g., dazzle, sparkle).
Etymology Origin:
The word sidle emerged in the 17th century, combining "side" with the frequentative -le suffix. It originally described the act of moving sideways repeatedly or cautiously, often to avoid notice. The suffix -le adds a sense of gradual or iterative motion, reflecting the word’s stealthy connotation.
The cat sidled up to the table, hoping to steal a piece of fish.
He sidled into the room, trying not to draw attention.
She sidled past the guards unnoticed.
The politician sidled around the controversial question.
A crab sidles along the beach, moving sideways with ease.