zigzag

UK: ˈzɪɡzæɡ | US: ˈzɪɡzæɡ

Definition

  1. n. a line or course having sharp alternate right and left turns

  2. adj. having the form of a zigzag; alternating directions sharply

  3. vi. to move in a zigzag pattern

Structure
zig <sharp turn>zag <sharp turn>
Etymology

The word "zigzag" is a reduplicative compound, where "zig" and "zag" are nearly identical morphemes, both imitating the idea of a sharp turn. It originated in the early 18th century, likely from German "Zickzack," which itself mimics the visual pattern of alternating angles. The playful repetition reinforces the back-and-forth motion it describes.

Examples

  1. The path led through the forest in a zigzag pattern.

  2. Lightning flashed in a zigzag across the sky.

  3. The child ran zigzag across the field to avoid being caught.

  4. The road zigzags up the mountain, making driving difficult.

  5. She sewed a zigzag stitch along the edge of the fabric.