What does zag mean?
Zag is an informal word for a sharp, abrupt change in direction, particularly one occurring in a sequence of alternating turns. It can be used as a noun, as in “the road made a sudden zag,” or as a verb, as in “the car zagged around the obstruction.” The traditional pairing of zig and zag evokes movement first in one direction and then the other, while the longer form zigzag describes a line, route, or motion consisting of repeated alternating turns. Zag is especially common in North American English, though it is also used in British English. Its strong suggestion of abruptness allows it to describe literal movement while remaining useful in figurative expressions about sudden changes in plans, events, or direction.
A sharp, abrupt change in direction, especially one of a series of alternating turns.
"The trail follows a series of sharp zags through the wooded hillside."
Often used for a conspicuous or unexpected turn; also common figuratively.
To move or turn sharply in one direction, especially as part of a series of alternating turns.
"The boat zagged across the bay as the wind shifted."
Generally informal; often implies a sudden movement from one side or direction to another.
The plural of the noun is zags.
"The skier threaded a series of sharp zags down the slope."
A zag is the sharp opposite turn that turns the familiar “zigzag” into a movement, not merely a shape.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does zag come from?
Zag is an English word that developed in the eighteenth century alongside the paired expression zig and zag and the longer form zigzags. The contrasting sounds of zig and zag are probably imitative of movement from side to side. Zag later came to be used independently for a sharp turn and, subsequently, for the act of turning sharply in one direction.
Related word forms
How zag is actually used
The word is informal and especially common in North American English. Its suggestion of a sudden, conspicuous change makes it useful both for literal movement and figuratively for an unexpected turn in events or circumstances.
Easily confused with zag
In the traditional paired expression “zig and zag,” zig and zag refer to alternating turns in opposite directions.
A zag is one sharp turn, whereas a zigzag describes a line, route, or movement made up of repeated alternating turns.