Sidewise means moving or directed toward one side rather than straight ahead or backward. When you take a sidewise step, you're moving sideways, like a crab scuttling along the beach or a basketball player shuffling to stay in front of an opponent.

The word often describes movement that feels indirect or cautious. A cat might creep sidewise toward a suspicious object, ready to dart away if needed. Someone trying to squeeze past others in a crowded hallway moves sidewise to fit through the narrow space.

You'll also see sidewise describe glances or looks. A sidewise glance means looking at something or someone from the corner of your eye rather than turning your head to look directly. Picture giving your friend a quick sidewise look during class when the teacher says something unexpected. It's that sneaky, indirect way of checking something out without being obvious.

The word captures that feeling of approaching something from an angle rather than head-on, whether you're physically moving that way or just shifting your eyes to peek at something interesting.