straddle

/ˈstrædəl/
noun
  1. A position with legs on either side of something.
    • He landed in a straddle after jumping over the log.
    • The gymnast held a perfect straddle on the balance beam.
    • The yoga instructor taught us the straddle pose for flexibility.
  2. A situation in which someone tries to support or agree with two opposing sides.
    • The coach's straddle between offense and defense confused the team.
    • His straddle between tradition and innovation made the company unique.
    • The senator's straddle on the healthcare bill frustrated voters on both sides.
verb
  1. To sit or stand with one leg on each side of something.
    • The child straddled the fence, not sure which side to jump down on.
    • She straddled the bench so she could face both directions.
    • The cowboy straddled the horse and grabbed the reins.
  2. To be on both sides of an issue or situation; to avoid taking a clear position.
    • Instead of choosing a side, he straddled the debate by agreeing with everyone.
    • The politician tried to straddle the issue of tax reform to please both parties.
    • The company straddled the line between traditional and modern marketing.
  3. To extend across or cover both sides of something.
    • The empire once straddled two continents.
    • A large rainbow straddled the valley after the storm.
    • The bridge straddles the river, connecting the two towns.
Antonyms