sideswipe

[ sahyd-swahyp ]
/ ˈsaɪdˌswaɪp /

verb (used with object), side·swiped, side·swip·ing.

to strike with a sweeping stroke or blow along the side; strike a glancing blow obliquely.

noun

such a strike or blow.

Origin of sideswipe

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05; side1 + swipe

OTHER WORDS FROM sideswipe

side·swip·er, noun

Example sentences from the Web for sideswipe

  • The skull was smashed over the left eye, as if someone had taken a sideswipe at Hendrix with a hammer.

    Let'em Breathe Space |Lester del Rey

British Dictionary definitions for sideswipe

sideswipe
/ (ˈsaɪdˌswaɪp) /

noun

a glancing blow or hit along or from the side
an unexpected criticism of someone or something while discussing another subject

verb

to strike (someone) with such a blow

Derived forms of sideswipe

sideswiper, noun