slalom
UK: ˈslɑːləm | US: ˈslɑːləm
n. a skiing or canoeing race following a winding course marked by poles or gates
vi. to move in a winding or zigzag course, especially in skiing or canoeing
The word "slalom" originates from Norwegian, where "sla" means "sloping" or "hillside," and "lom" refers to a "track" or "path." It was adopted into English in the early 20th century to describe a skiing race with a zigzag course. The term later expanded to include similar winding movements in canoeing and other sports. The morphemes reflect the word's literal meaning of navigating a sloping track.
The skier expertly navigated the slalom course, weaving between the gates with precision.
Canoeists must practice tight turns to master the slalom in whitewater races.
She won the gold medal in the alpine slalom event at the Winter Olympics.
The road twisted like a slalom, making the drive both challenging and scenic.
Beginners often struggle with the speed and agility required for slalom skiing.