Definition

1. Adverb:

   • With one leg on each side of something: In a position where the legs are stretched apart, with each leg on either side of an object, animal, or person.
   • With legs stretched far apart: In a posture where the legs are wide apart, often for balance or stability.

2. Preposition:

   • On both sides of; extending across: Straddling or spanning something, so that parts are on each side.

Usage

• Adverb: Used to describe the posture of a person or animal. It typically follows a verb like , , or .
• Preposition: Used to indicate the object being straddled. It is followed by a noun phrase (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Adverb:
  • She sat astride on the wooden bench.
  • The cowboy rode astride all day.
• Preposition:
  • The town lies astride the river.
  • He stood astride the fallen log.

Advanced Usage

• "To sit astride something": To sit with one leg on each side of an object.
  • The mechanic sat astride the motorcycle frame while repairing it.
• "To stand astride something": To stand with legs apart, often over something.
  • The giant stood astride the narrow path, blocking the way.

Variants and Related Words

• Straddle (verb): To sit, stand, or walk with the legs wide apart, especially on either side of something.
  • He straddled the fence.
• Astride (adjective, archaic): In a straddling position. (Note: This adjectival use is now rare; the adverb and preposition are standard.)

Synonyms

• Straddling: Being in a position with legs on either side.
• Bestride (literary): To stand or sit with a leg on each side of; to straddle.

Related Phrases

• Astride of (preposition, somewhat dated): Synonymous with the preposition .
  • The village was built astride of the old trade route.

Adverb

1. with the legs stretched far apart
2. with one leg on each side
   • she sat astride the chair