meander
/miˈændər/to move or walk in a leisurely, winding, or indirect way
The river meanders through the valley.
The river flows in a winding, indirect path through the valley.
After dinner, we meandered through the park.
After dinner, we walked leisurely and without a fixed route through the park.
Often used to describe a relaxed, unhurried movement or path.
to speak or write in a long-winded or indirect manner
He meandered through his speech, never getting to the point.
He spoke in a roundabout, indirect way, avoiding the main topic.
Used to describe speech or writing that is unnecessarily lengthy or indirect.
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Literal and Figurative Use
Meander can describe both physical movement (e.g., a river or a person walking) and abstract concepts like speech or writing.
⚡Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning of 'meander' depends on the context. It can describe physical movement or the style of speech/writing.
📖Word Origin
From the Greek 'maiandros', meaning 'winding, intricate', related to the river Meander in modern-day Turkey.
📝Usage Notes
The word is often used to describe a relaxed, unhurried movement or path, whether physical or metaphorical.