Definition

Describing something that is bordered or has a margin, or referring to an action that avoids or evades something.

Example

The skirted area around the garden was filled with flowers.

Conversation

Did you see how she skirted the issue during the meeting?

Yeah, it was pretty obvious she didn't want to discuss it.

I wonder why she skirted around it instead of addressing it directly.

Maybe she was just trying to avoid a confrontation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To have avoided or gone around something, often in a way that is not direct or straightforward.

Example

She skirted the issue during the meeting to avoid conflict.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how she skirted around that topic during the meeting?

Yeah, it was pretty obvious she didn't want to talk about it.

I wonder why she skirted the issue like that.

Root Explanation

Skirted → It originates from the word 'skirt' (from Old Norse *skyrta*, meaning a shirt or garment) combined with the suffix '-ed' (indicating a past action or state). The word 'skirted' means to have worn or to have moved around the edge of something, often avoiding the main part.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'garment' ('skirt') that you might wear, and remember that 'skirted' means to have worn or to have moved around the edges.

Visually Confused Words