Meaning & Definition of Drift in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: To move slowly, aimlessly or without a specific direction.

  Example Sentence: The boat began to drift downstream.

• Definition: A gradual change or shift in opinion or outlook.

  Example Sentence: There has been a drift towards more sustainable practices in the company.

• Definition: A force acting on an object causing it to be displaced from its original position.

  Example Sentence: The drift of the ship was corrected by adjusting the sails.

• Definition: A wide, open area of land covered with coarse grass.

  Example Sentence: The sheep grazed peacefully on the highland drift.

• Definition: An unintentional shift from a particular subject or topic.

  Example Sentence: The conversation took a drift away from its original point.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English, from Old Norse 'drif', meaning 'to drive' or 'to push'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• drift apart: To gradually end a friendship or relationship due to lack of interaction.
• drift off: To fall asleep gradually.
• driftwood: Wood that is washed ashore by the sea or a river.
• drift in and out: To be in and out of consciousness or awareness.

Translations

• Spanish: deriva

• French: dérive

• German: drift

• Russian: дрифт

Related Words

• drifting: The act of moving or causing to move slowly or purposefully.

• drifter: A person who wanders aimlessly.

• driftless: A term used to describe an area lacking in small hill formations, often associated with soil types.

Slang Meanings of drift

• Meaning: To drive in a manner that causes the vehicle to lose traction.

  Example Sentence: We went to the parking lot to practice some drift with our cars.

• Meaning: To be in a relaxed state, often doing nothing productive.

  Example Sentence: After a long week, I just want to drift on the couch.