sliding
UK: ˈslaɪdɪŋ | US: ˈslaɪdɪŋ
adj. moving smoothly along a surface
n. the act or motion of gliding continuously
vt./vi. present participle of "slide" (to move smoothly over a surface)
The word "sliding" derives from the Old English verb slīdan ("to glide, slip"), which shares roots with Germanic words like Dutch slijden and German gleiten. The core idea of smooth, effortless motion persists in modern usage. The suffix -ing marks it as a present participle or gerund, indicating ongoing action. The morphemes combine logically: "slide" captures the motion, while "-ing" extends it into a continuous state or activity.
The children laughed while sliding down the icy hill.
The sliding door opened silently as she approached.
He adjusted the microscope’s sliding mechanism for better focus.
The team’s performance has been sliding since the coach left.
Wet leaves made the path dangerous for sliding vehicles.