What does slanting mean?
Slanting describes something that is inclined, leaning, or extending at an angle rather than being level or upright. It is especially useful when describing roofs, lines, rays of light, shadows, and perspectives. The word often conveys a clear visual impression: slanting sunlight may suggest late afternoon or warmth, while a slanting roof or staircase emphasizes movement and imbalance. Figuratively, slanting language or a slanting reference can imply that something is being presented indirectly, unevenly, or with a particular bias. In general contexts, the word is more vivid than the simpler terms inclined or tilted, and it remains neutral unless the surrounding description suggests a negative judgment.
Inclined at an angle; leaning or tilted.
"The slanting beams supported the roof."
Common in descriptions of architecture, light, shadows, lines, and perspective.
To move, extend, or lie at an angle.
"The fence slants sharply toward the river."
Usually intransitive; it describes the direction of movement or position rather than actively causing something to incline.
In art and photography, slanting lines can create a lively sense of movement, while strict vertical and horizontal lines often suggest stability and order.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slanting come from?
Slanting comes from the English verb slant, which derives from an older Scandinavian word related to modern Scandinavian forms meaning “to slope” or “to lean.” The verb entered Middle English and was used for both physical inclination and figurative deviation. The present participle slanting developed in the usual English way by adding -ing to the verb. Its meaning has remained closely tied to the idea of an oblique direction or uneven presentation.
Related word forms
How slanting is actually used
The term is descriptive and generally neutral. In visual description, it emphasizes an angle rather than simply saying that something is tilted. Its figurative use for writing or speech is less common and can suggest indirectness or bias.
Easily confused with slanting
“Slanted” is a verb form or a past participle, whereas “slanting” is an adjective describing something that is inclined or tilted.
“Slanting” and “slanting” are the same spelling in standard English; capitalization may distinguish a sentence-initial use but not the word itself.