sideways

adverb or adjective

side·​ways ˈsīd-ˌwāz How to pronounce sideways (audio)
1
: from one side
2
: with one side forward
turn sideways
3
a
: in a lateral direction or downward to one side
hopped sideways
slump sideways
b
: askance
look sideways at someone

Examples of sideways in a Sentence

I had to walk sideways to get between the two towering piles of boxes she glanced at us sideways when she heard us claim we weren't there that night
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Exiles is set after a high-profile mission goes sideways, pulling Sgt. Glenn Garner, Deadline, 4 June 2025 But then Scott was summoned from the bullpen, and everything went sideways. Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2025 Elon Musk interview with CBS goes sideways after Trump policy question | RISING Robby Soave and Lindsey Granger discuss a CBS interview with Elon Musk that went off the rails after he was asked about President Trump and other political questions. The Hill, 2 June 2025 With that many opportunities for things to go sideways, getting cruise insurance can be a smart choice. Jason Stauffer, CNBC, 1 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sideways

Word History

First Known Use

1572, in the meaning defined at sense 3a

Time Traveler
The first known use of sideways was in 1572

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sideways.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sideways. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

sideways

adverb or adjective
side·​ways ˈsīd-ˌwāz How to pronounce sideways (audio)
1
: from one side
viewed the stage sideways
2
: with one side forward
turn sideways
3
: to one side
fell sideways

More from Merriam-Webster on sideways

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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