Veer

To veer means to change direction or course suddenly. It can refer to a physical change in movement, like a ship altering its direction in response to the wind, or a more abstract shift in thought, opinion, or focus. The change is typically characterized by a relatively quick and noticeable deviation from the original path or subject. This alteration often implies a response to an external force or influence, whether literal, such as wind, or figurative, like pressure from a crowd. The degree of change is typically not drastic enough to be considered a complete reversal, but rather a subtle, yet impactful adjustment. The word is often used in describing movements of vehicles, the trajectory of objects, or even the direction of conversations and attitudes. It implies adaptability and a responsive nature to changing circumstances. The essence of 'veer' is a spontaneous deviation, a reactive adjustment.

Veer meaning with examples

• The sailboat began to veer to port as a sudden gust of wind filled its sails. The captain quickly adjusted the rudder, but the boat’s momentum caused it to continue its slight, unavoidable change of direction. The sailors braced themselves, expecting further, unpredictable adjustments to the boat’s route on the open water.
• During the debate, the politician started to veer away from the prepared script when faced with challenging questions from the audience. He started to make off-the-cuff statements, as the crowd’s disapproval forced him to change the focus of his argument to appease them. His speech developed a new trajectory.
• As the car approached the icy patch, the driver instinctively veered the steering wheel slightly to avoid a collision. Although a panicked reaction, it was a necessary course correction that saved the driver from a potentially dangerous turn, a turn away from the threat of collision.
• The discussion about the project's success started to veer into discussions of the individual member’s accomplishments. The project lead had to subtly steer the group back on track, trying to ensure that team members didn’t forget the collective goal they were working for, a shared objective.
• After years of following a strict diet, her cravings caused her resolve to veer towards unhealthy choices at the buffet. She sampled the various delights and found it hard to resist the temptation, thus giving in to her craving, resulting in some changes to her usual diet.