sidle
/ˈsaɪdəl/
noun
- A sideways movement, especially one that is cautious or sneaky.
- The dancer performed a smooth sidle across the stage.
- Her sidle toward the door was so subtle that no one saw her leave.
- With a quick sidle, the crab disappeared under a rock.
verb
- To move sideways, especially in a quiet or cautious way, often to avoid being noticed.
- She sidled past the guard, hoping not to be seen.
- He sidled through the crowded room to reach the exit.
- The cat sidled along the fence, watching the bird.
- To approach someone or something in a shy, sneaky, or indirect manner.
- He sidled into the conversation without anyone noticing.
- A stranger sidled toward me and asked for directions.
- The nervous student sidled up to the teacher after class.