zigzag
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈzɪɡzæɡ//
KK: /ˈzɪɡˌzæɡ/
adjective
Definition
Describing a pattern or movement that has sharp turns or angles, often resembling a series of connected lines that change direction quickly.
Example
The path through the forest was zigzag, making it difficult to walk straight.
Conversation
Did you see that new bike path they built near the park?
Yeah, I heard it has a really zigzag design.
I think it's cool how it adds some fun to the ride.
Totally! It makes biking more interesting with those sharp turns.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
winding
serpentine
meandering
Antonyms
straight
linear
smooth
adverb
Definition
In a way that moves back and forth in sharp angles or turns, creating a zigzag pattern.
Example
The dog ran zigzag across the field to avoid the rain.
Conversation
Did you see how he rode his bike zigzag through the park?
Yeah, it looked like a lot of fun!
I wonder if I could learn to ride like that.
intransitive verb
Definition
To move back and forth in sharp angles or turns, creating a pattern that resembles a series of Z shapes.
Example
The dog zigzagged through the park, chasing after the ball.
Tense Forms
Past: zigzagged
Past Participle: zigzagged
Conversation
Did you see how that car was zigzagging through traffic?
Yeah, it was pretty wild! I couldn't believe they were driving like that.
I wonder if they were just trying to get away from something.
noun
Definition
A pattern or line that moves in sharp turns back and forth, creating a series of angles or changes in direction.
Example
The path through the forest was a zigzag, making it difficult to walk straight.
Conversation
Did you see that road sign with the zigzag pattern?
Yes, I did! It makes the road look so interesting.
I wonder why they chose a zigzag design instead of something straight.
transitive verb
Definition
To make something move in a pattern that goes back and forth in sharp angles, like a zigzag line.
Example
The children zigzagged their bikes through the park.
Tense Forms
Past: zigzagged
Past Participle: zigzagged
Conversation
Did you see how she zigzagged through the crowd at the concert?
Yeah, it was pretty impressive!
I wonder how she managed to zigzag so quickly without bumping into anyone.
Root Explanation
Zigzag → The word 'zigzag' is of imitative origin, derived from the German 'zickzack', which mimics the sharp turns and angles of the pattern. It describes a pattern that moves back and forth in sharp angles.
Memory Tip
Imagine a path that sharply turns back and forth, just like the sound of 'zickzack' mimics the movement — that's how you remember 'zigzag' means a pattern of sharp turns.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.