What does slanted mean?
Slanted describes something that is not level or upright but instead tilted at an angle. The word is especially common when describing roofs, lines, signs, writing, or other visibly inclined surfaces. It can also have a figurative meaning: a slanted account, description, or perspective is distorted in favor of a particular opinion, group, or interpretation. This figurative use suggests unfairness or deliberate bias rather than simple preference. Because “straight” can mean both physically upright and honest or unbiased, slanted plays on both meanings and is therefore especially effective for describing a viewpoint that has been tilted in a particular direction.
Tilted or inclined at an angle rather than level or upright; figuratively, biased or distorted.
"The artist drew the horizon as a slanted line across the page."
The figurative adjective is commonly used with words such as account, perspective, view, and story to suggest partial or biased presentation.
To tilt or move into an inclined position.
"The truck slanted sharply as it climbed the steep road."
Less common than the adjective; often used to describe a vehicle, structure, surface, or written line moving into an angled position.
A slanted line can describe both a leaning object and a biased argument, reminding us that perspective often changes what looks straight.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slanted come from?
Slanted comes from the older English verb slant, which developed from the language of tilting or leaning. The related noun slant also denotes an oblique direction or position. The word’s history reflects its long-standing association with physical inclination, which later supported its figurative sense of being biased or distorted.
Related word forms
How slanted is actually used
In its literal sense, slanted is commonly used for physical objects, surfaces, or lines. In figurative use, it usually implies a deliberate or systematic bias and is often more critical than simply partisan.
Easily confused with slanted
Slant is usually the noun or verb for an inclined position or direction, whereas slanted describes something that has been tilted or is presented at an angle.