Definition

Noun 1. A sudden change of direction or course; a swerving or turning aside. - This refers specifically to the action or instance of shifting direction abruptly, often in an unpredictable manner.

Usage

The word "veering" describes a sharp, often uncontrolled, change in the path of movement. It is commonly used to describe the motion of vehicles, wind, or even the direction of a conversation or opinion.

Examples

• The driver avoided the accident by a sudden veering of the car to the left.
• Meteorologists noted a sharp veering of the wind from west to north.
• There has been a noticeable veering in public opinion on the issue.

Advanced Usage

• "Veering and hauling": A nautical term describing the act of repeatedly changing a ship's course, often while tacking against the wind.
• Used figuratively to describe erratic changes in policy, thought, or behavior.
  • The company's strategy has been characterized by constant veering, confusing its investors.

Variants and Related Words

• Veer (verb): To change direction suddenly.
  • The truck veered off the road.
• Veered (adjective, past participle): Describes something that has turned aside.
  • a veered course

Synonyms

• Swerving
• Turning
• Deviating
• Sheering
• Diving (in a specific context)

Antonyms

• Continuing
• Proceeding
• Holding course
• Straightening

Related Phrases

• To veer off course: To deviate from the intended path or plan.
  • The project veered off course due to budget cuts.
• To veer toward/away from: To shift direction in approach to or retreat from something.
  • His speech veered toward a more radical position.

Noun

1. the act of turning aside suddenly