What does sidelong mean?
Sidelong means directed, moving, or looking sideways rather than directly. It is especially associated with a sidelong glance or look: an indirect glance that may suggest suspicion, embarrassment, reluctance, or deliberate avoidance of eye contact. The word can also describe something extending or positioned at an angle to a main line, such as a sidelong shadow or a sidelong movement. In its adverb use, “sidelong” indicates that an action occurs obliquely or to the side. Although it occurs in both British and American English, it has a relatively formal, literary tone and is less common in everyday conversation than words such as “sideways” or “oblique.” Sidelong is useful when the direction of a glance or movement matters, especially because it can carry the additional implication of indirectness or unease.
Directed sideways or obliquely rather than directly forward; often used of a glance or look that is indirect or furtive.
"She gave him a sidelong look before turning away."
Common in the established phrase “sidelong glance” and sometimes suggestive of suspicion, discomfort, or evasiveness.
In a sideways or oblique direction.
"The boat slid sidelong across the current."
More literary than the common adverb “sideways” in descriptions of movement or orientation.
A sidelong glance is the glance of someone who is looking without quite wanting to be noticed looking.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sidelong come from?
Sidelong was formed in the early 17th century from “side” and “long,” both of which are of Germanic origin. The compound originally referred to movement or orientation at the side rather than directly forward. Its modern use for an indirect or furtive glance developed from the idea of looking sideways instead of looking someone directly in the eye.
How sidelong is actually used
The expression “sidelong glance” is especially common. Such a glance can imply that the person is being furtive, doubtful, or deliberately indirect, although the context does not always require that interpretation. The word is somewhat literary and is less typical of casual speech.