Crab-walked

The past tense of the verb "crab-walk," meaning to move sideways with the body facing forward, often using the hands and feet for support. This movement resembles the way a crab moves, hence the term. Crab-walking is commonly employed in situations requiring lateral movement in tight spaces, over uneven terrain, or when agility and stability are crucial. It can be used in exercises for physical therapy or athletic training, or in situations where a person is trying to maintain balance or avoid slipping. The term may also be used figuratively to describe a slow, awkward, or hesitant progression or method of dealing with a situation.

Crab-walked meaning with examples

• The narrow hallway was too tight to turn around, so I crab-walked my way back to the entrance, keeping my groceries from falling. It felt awkward but was the most effective solution for the tight squeeze.
• During the obstacle course, she skillfully crab-walked across the low-hanging beams, maintaining a low center of gravity and demonstrating exceptional balance, wowing the observers.
• The toddler, learning to walk, crab-walked across the living room floor, her small hands and feet helping her navigate the smooth surface. It was endearing to watch her progress.
• Feeling disoriented after the earthquake, he crab-walked to a safer position under the sturdy table, hoping to stay safe during the aftershocks and avoid injury.
• The injured soldier, unable to use his legs fully, crab-walked to the medic, utilizing his upper body strength to reach medical assistance, displaying great courage.