tilt
UK: tɪlt | US: tɪlt
v. to cause to lean, incline, or slant
v. to engage in a combat or competition with lances (historically)
n. a sloping position or movement
n. a medieval jousting contest
The word "tilt" traces back to Old English tyltan, which conveyed the idea of unsteadiness or imbalance. Over time, it evolved to describe physical leaning or slanting, as well as the action of thrusting (e.g., in jousting). The medieval sense of "jousting" arose from the motion of tilting a lance toward an opponent. The dual meanings of "slope" and "confrontation" reflect the word's dynamic history.
The tower began to tilt dangerously after the earthquake.
He tilted his head in confusion.
The knights prepared to tilt in the tournament.
The table tilts if you put weight on one side.
She tilted the umbrella to shield herself from the rain.