What does sagittate mean?
Sagittate is a rare verb meaning to move or fly like an arrow. It describes motion that is swift, straight, and purposeful, often suggesting the abrupt trajectory of an arrow released from a bow. The verb can be applied literally to birds, projectiles, or other fast-moving objects, but it is also used figuratively for a person's focused movement or gaze. Its uncommon form gives it a literary and often dramatic character, making it more evocative than ordinary words such as “dart” or “fly.” The word comes ultimately from Latin, where sagitta means “arrow.” In modern English, sagittate is uncommon in everyday speech and is most likely to appear in literary, poetic, or technically descriptive writing.
verbTo move or fly in the manner of an arrow, especially in a direct, swift course. The word is chiefly literary or technical.
- To move or fly like an arrow, especially in a straight and rapid direction.
"The hawk sagittated through the sky, briefly becoming a dark streak against the clouds."
"The missile sagittated across the night sky."
"Her gaze sagittated toward the distant horizon."
Sagittate captures the instant an arrow leaves the bow: motion as straight, swift, and purposeful as a missile.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of sagittate
Sagittate derives from Latin sagittare, “to shoot an arrow,” formed from sagitta, meaning “arrow.” English borrowed the term in the early 19th century for movement resembling the flight of an arrow. Related words include sagittal, referring to an arrow-shaped structure, and Sagittarius, the Latin name for the Archer constellation.
Related word forms
How sagittate is actually used
This is a rare, literary verb with a noticeably formal or poetic tone. It normally conveys a swift, direct, arrow-like movement.