slide
UK: slaɪd | US: slaɪd
v. to move smoothly along a surface
n. a structure with a smooth surface for sliding
n. a decline or reduction
n. a transparent image for projection
The word "slide" originates from Old English slīdan, meaning "to glide or slip." The root sl- is shared with other Germanic words implying smooth motion (e.g., Dutch slijden, German gleiten). The -ide suffix reinforces the action, evolving into its modern sense of effortless movement. Over time, "slide" expanded to include physical objects (e.g., playground slides) and metaphorical declines (e.g., "a slide in profits").
Children love to slide down the snowy hill.
The presenter advanced to the next slide.
Oil causes surfaces to slide more easily.
The stock market began to slide after the news.
She watched the glass slide across the table.