Careened

The word 'careened' describes the act of moving rapidly and often uncontrollably in a specified direction, typically at a high speed. It suggests a tilting or lurching motion, often implying a loss of control or stability. This movement can be due to the forces of nature (like wind or water) or external influences (like a vehicle veering). The term frequently portrays a sense of urgency, danger, or reckless abandon. When something careens, it is often deviating from a straight path, and the motion is generally perceived as somewhat erratic or unpredictable. The imagery evoked is of a swift, potentially dangerous trajectory, where the object or person involved is in transition, often with a potential for a crash or collision.

Careened meaning with examples

• The old, rusted car, its brakes failing, careened down the steep hill, narrowly missing a pedestrian before smashing into a lamppost. Witnesses described the horrifying scene as a heart stopping moment. The sheer speed made them think they could have been severely injured or worse. The resulting noise of the car meeting the lamppost was heard throughout the neighborhood.
• As the storm intensified, the ship careened violently through the tempestuous waves. The captain and crew fought to keep the vessel upright as the violent gusts of wind pushed the ship. It made them all very sea sick. The precarious motion of the boat caused several crates of cargo to slide across the deck, increasing the danger of the already volatile conditions.
• After being startled by a loud noise, the cat careened across the room, scattering the clutter on the table in its wake. It was like a missile being fired off into space. The cat was very startled indeed. It took the rest of the day for the cat to go near that room again. Even then, they'd hide in the shadows.
• The skater, attempting a daring trick, careened off the ramp, wobbling precariously before regaining balance just before falling. The crowd gasped as they watched the skater's incredible recovery. The skater was a true professional and even managed a smile, as the crowd erupted with applause. The skater's heart rate was going a mile a minute.