waddle
/ˈwɒdəl/
NOUN
1. A short-stepped, swaying manner of walking
A distinctive way of walking with short steps while tilting or swaying the body from side to side, often associated with ducks, penguins, or people with a wide or unsteady gait.
1.1. An unsteady or swaying walking gait
Describes a characteristic manner of walking in which the body rocks, sways, or shifts from side to side with each step.
Synonyms
Examples
- The penguin's awkward waddle made everyone smile.
- The toddler's unsteady waddle became more confident as she learned to walk.
- The duck crossed the garden with its familiar waddle.
Related Words
VERB
2. To walk with short steps while swaying from side to side
To move forward by taking short, awkward steps while tilting or rocking the body from one side to the other.
2.1. Walking with a rocking or swaying motion
Describes walking with a noticeable side-to-side movement of the body, often because of one's build, physical condition, or distinctive gait.
Synonyms
Examples
- The heavily pregnant woman waddled slowly toward the waiting car.
- The penguin waddled across the icy surface toward the water.
- The ducklings waddled behind their mother along the riverbank.
Related Words
2.2. Moving with short, awkward or unsteady steps
Describes moving forward in a clumsy, heavy, or unsteady manner, often with short steps and difficulty maintaining a smooth walking rhythm.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- stride
- march
- rush
Examples
- The sleepy toddler waddled across the room toward his mother.
- The old dog waddled slowly across the yard.
- The man waddled toward the exit with several heavy bags in his hands.
Related Words
- stumble
- stagger
- limp
- trudge
- plod
- amble
- shuffle
- walk