Meaning & Definition of word "Askew"
Askew
/əˈskjuː/
adjective:
- 1. Crooked or tilted; not straight or aligned.
- Example: The picture hung askew on the wall, making the room look unkempt.
- 2. Awry; out of the normal or expected position.
- Example: Her hat was askew after the windy walk, giving her an endearing look.
- 3. Not in a straight or level position.
- Example: The table was askew, causing the drinks to spill off.
adverb:
- 1. In a crooked or slanting position.
- Example: He placed the vase askew, which made the flowers lean to one side.
- 2. Awry; mistakenly; not as it should be.
- Example: Her plans for the weekend went askew after the rain started.
Etymology
●Middle English 'askewe', from Old Norse 'askew', meaning 'crooked'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
tilt to one side:
To lean or incline in a particular direction.
look askew:
To look at something with disapproval or skepticism.
Related Words
crooked:
Not straight; bent.
tilt:
To slant or tip.
awry:
Away from the appropriate, planned, or expected course.