Sidelong
/ˈsaɪd.lɔŋ/noun
Aimed or directed to the side, or in an indirect, oblique way.
Did you know?The word has long been used for both literal sideways motion and a suspicious, indirect look, making it a perfect example of how English turns posture into psychology.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
sīdlang
“Side-long, lateral, extending or directed toward the side.”
Middle English
ME
sidelong
“Sideways; obliquely; with the side turned toward something.”
14th Century
English
sidelong
“In a slanting or lateral direction; by a side glance.”
Modern English
English
sidelong
“Directed or occurring obliquely, especially with a sideways look or motion.”