Careen

To lean or swerve sideways while in motion, often uncontrollably. This can apply to a ship tilting to one side in the water, a vehicle veering off course, or a person lurching erratically. It suggests a loss of balance, control, or stability. The term implies a precariousness and can describe movement that is unsteady or unpredictable. Historically, "careen" also specifically referred to tilting a ship for cleaning or repair.

Careen meaning with examples

• The ship, caught in the violent storm, began to careen wildly, its mast groaning under the strain of the wind. The crew scrambled to secure the sails and maintain some semblance of control as the vessel threatened to capsize in the tumultuous waves. They fought to keep the boat afloat through the storm.
• After hitting the patch of black ice, the car started to careen across the highway, narrowly missing other vehicles. The driver desperately fought the steering wheel, struggling to regain control as the car spun towards the guardrail. The near miss left everyone shaken and grateful for the safety of their car.
• The inebriated man stumbled and began to careen down the sidewalk, bumping into lampposts and trash cans. His friends tried to steady him, but his unsteady gait made it difficult. They knew he needed to slow down, but the path of intoxication was not as easy to get off as walking to a side street.
• As the roller coaster ascended its highest point, the cars suddenly careened downward, producing the thrill they wanted. Riders screamed as they felt the sensation of weightlessness, and the g-force pulled them to their seats, but the fun of the careen provided their enjoyment.