Word of the Day: Meander
What's the story
The word "meander" is a verb that means to wander aimlessly. A person who "meanders" isn't in a rush—they're strolling, exploring, or simply lost in thought. It can also refer to a winding river or a conversation that drifts without a clear direction. Whether it's a lazy walk in the park or an overlong story, "meander" captures the unhurried, winding nature of movement.
Origin
Origin of the word
"Meander" comes from the Greek Maiandros, the name of a famously winding river in Turkey. Over time, the word evolved to describe any slow, wandering movement—whether physical or metaphorical.
Synonyms
Synonyms for 'meander'
Some close alternatives include wander, roam, drift, stroll, and dawdle. For extra creativity, you might use ramble, saunter, or snake—especially when describing movement that has no clear path.
Usage
Sentence usage
Here's how "meander" can be used in a sentence: "He 'meandered' through the bookstore, picking up random books without any particular goal." "The river 'meandered' lazily through the valley, curving at every turn."
Extra detail
Why use the word
"Meander" is perfect for anything that moves in a slow, winding, or indirect way. It brings a relaxed, dreamy quality to descriptions, whether you're talking about a scenic path, a wandering traveler, or a never-ending conversation!