How Do You Spell SIDELONG?

Pronunciation: [sˈa͡ɪdlɒŋ] (IPA)

The word "sidelong" is spelled as /ˈsaɪd.lɒŋ/. The first syllable "side" is pronounced as /saɪd/, and the second syllable "long" is pronounced as /lɒŋ/. The spelling of this word follows the English language's phonetic rules, where "i" is pronounced as /aɪ/ and "e" is pronounced as /ɛ/. The suffix "-long" is pronounced as /lɒŋ/, which means extending far horizontally. Overall, the word "sidelong" means extending or directed to one side.

SIDELONG Meaning and Definition

1. Sidelong is an adjective that describes something that is done or directed towards the side; it refers to an action, glance, or look that is not straight or direct. It is derived from the combination of the words "side" and "long." When used to describe a look or glance, it implies that it is not straightforward and is done in an indirect, oblique, or covert manner.

   The term can also indicate a sideways or oblique line or direction. It suggests a movement or position that deviates from the norm or main path, whether physical or figurative. In this sense, it can describe a slanting or skewed alignment or angle. For example, a sidelong parking space would indicate a space oriented diagonally or at an angle, rather than perpendicular to the curb.

   Moreover, sidelong can have a figurative or metaphorical meaning, referring to something that is indirect, covert, or subtly implied. It conveys a sense of suspicion or distrust, as if someone is being elusive or trying to conceal their true intentions. This can be observed in phrases like a sidelong comment, a sidelong glance, or a sidelong remark.

   Overall, sidelong encompasses various connotations related to the side, indirectness, obliquity, and suspicion. The context in which it is used determines the precise shade of meaning conveyed by this versatile adjective.

2. • Oblique; not directly in front.

   • Obliquely; in the direction of the side.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SIDELONG

• siedelong
• sidleong
• egdelong
• sidebon
• Sydeling
• sideloks
• sidelokk
• Idelions
• simelons
• iselong
• Miyeong
• Siedbonz

Etymology of SIDELONG

The word "sidelong" has an interesting etymology. It dates back to the Middle English period and is a combination of two Old English words: "side" and "lang", which meant "long". The word "side" refers to the idea of being at or towards the side, while "lang" means long or length. Therefore, the word "sidelong" originally meant something along the lines of "long on the side" or "lengthwise at the side". Over time, the meaning of "sidelong" evolved to describe something viewed or done from the side, or something that is oblique or indirectly expressed.

Similar spelling words for SIDELONG

• sideline,
• Sidelinger.