Sideling
The adjective 'sideling' describes something that is sloping or inclined, often referring to terrain that is not level. It can also describe movement that is sideways or obliquely, rather than directly forward or backward. The term suggests a gentle incline or a movement that is gradual and cautious, often involving a shifting or slanting of position. It can be used both literally to describe a physical slope or a method of progression and figuratively to portray an approach to a subject or situation that is indirect or evasive.
Sideling meaning with examples
- The hikers found the only safe path up the mountain involved a lengthy sideling traverse along the ridge, slowly gaining elevation. They carefully watched their footing. This sideling passage was exhausting, but the view from the top was worth every strenuous step.
- To avoid the mud, the farmers had to sideling their tractors across the field, resulting in an uneven planting. This sideling planting, though difficult, would eventually produce a bountiful harvest. The slow and controlled approach minimized the damage to the soil.
- During negotiations, the diplomat adopted a sideling approach, carefully avoiding direct confrontation. This sideling strategy, although slow, allowed her to build rapport. This was an effective method for gaining consensus. Her goal was the best outcome possible.
- The artist painted a mountainscape, using sideling brushstrokes to suggest the gradual incline of the hills. The sideling strokes gave the painting a depth. The sideling nature of the brushwork suggested a sense of quiet beauty. It added a subtle movement to the work.
- The construction crew, needing to install a pipeline, had to blast a sideling access tunnel through the bedrock. It was sideling to avoid any other building foundations. The careful work had to accommodate the terrain. This required them to consider the angle of the tunnel meticulously.