Sidewinder

A sidewinder refers to two main things: 1) A type of desert rattlesnake known for its unique method of locomotion, moving sideways across sand dunes by throwing its body into a series of looping curves, and 2) a military term for an air-to-air missile. This missile, often infrared-guided, is designed to track and destroy enemy aircraft. The name is apt due to its agility and ability to 'sidewind' towards a target, effectively mimicking the snake's lateral movement. The term can also be used colloquially to describe someone who acts in a sneaky or underhanded manner. This is often done through betrayal or deceptive tactics.

Sidewinder meaning with examples

• The hikers cautiously navigated the desert trail, constantly scanning the sand for the telltale pattern of a sidewinder's tracks. The snake's movement, a series of 'sidewinds,' was a key adaptation to the loose sand. They knew that if encountered, they would need to move slowly and keep their distance.
• During the air combat training exercise, the pilot expertly deployed a sidewinder missile, locking onto the simulated enemy aircraft. The missile's sensors rapidly acquired the target, demonstrating its incredible maneuverability and high-speed flight. It weaved between the drones in a direct and highly responsive attack.
• His business partner was a true sidewinder. He had pretended to befriend and support him for years, only to reveal his true nature when the time came to take credit and control of the successful business, a betrayal of trust and friendship. The man was deeply hurt by this disloyalty.
• The news reported the development of a new generation sidewinder missile, capable of intercepting targets with greater speed and accuracy. This advancement in technology was expected to significantly enhance the air defense capabilities of multiple countries. This technology changed the landscape of war.
• Be careful of the 'sidewinders' in politics, they will support your cause to then pull the rug out from under you for their own agenda. Politicians are known to exploit their constituents' trust to get ahead.
• The military's latest training included evasive maneuvers against sidewinder attacks, simulating the missile's capabilities. Pilots needed to learn how to make sudden moves in order to not be an easy target. Their survival hinged on their understanding of these advanced combat strategies.
• The wildlife photographer documented the sidewinder's hunting behavior, watching as it ambushed its prey from its burrow in the sand. The photographer's research was critical in determining that the snake does this with a highly precise method. The snake was an incredible hunter.
• The treaty negotiations were fraught with challenges, as one of the representatives acted like a sidewinder, always maneuvering for an advantage and employing deceptive tactics. His devious dealings were well-known and his colleagues were not surprised, which slowed down all the other teams.
• Experts were consulted to determine if the missile's sidewinding ability posed any threat to nearby commercial airliners. They needed to know if the missile could inadvertently target these planes by mistake. The potential for damage was high.