Snaking

The act of moving or progressing in a winding, curving, or serpentine manner, often resembling the movement of a snake. This can describe the physical path of something, like a river or a line of people, or it can figuratively describe the way something develops or spreads, such as an emotion or an idea. It implies a lack of directness and often suggests a slow, deliberate, or stealthy movement, weaving through obstacles or space. The term evokes imagery of flexibility and fluidity, where the subject twists and turns, adapting to its surroundings.

Snaking meaning with examples

• The river, snaking its way through the valley, carved a path through the lush green landscape. The water glinted in the sunlight as it twisted and turned, slowly eroding the banks. It followed the natural contours of the land, never taking a straight route, creating an unpredictable but beautiful flow. The journey was made smoother by the slow and subtle snaking movements of the stream.
• The parade of spectators snaking along the street slowly approached, eager to secure a front-row view. The mass of people slowly moved, changing the angle of view with the ever-changing position. The crowd was a continuous ribbon of color and sound, as the groups of people twisted and turned around street corners.
• Fear snaking its way through her body, she gripped the door handle tightly. Her heart began to race, a slow and consistent wave washing over her senses. The panic was slow, and gradual, weaving its way through every fiber of her being, leaving her feeling frozen in place.
• The rumors of a new policy began snaking through the office, creating a tense atmosphere. Whispers and half-truths bounced from one person to another, subtly shifting as the story was re-told. This slow dissemination of information created anxiety and uncertainty among the employees, slowly working its way into their conversations.