meander - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
meander Word Meanings
- to move in a winding or curving way
- to follow a circuitous path
- to wander aimlessly
meander Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
meander Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/miˈændə/
US
/miˈændər/
meander Word Etymology
The root is derived from 'meander' meaning 'to wind' (related to a river's curves). Originated from Latin 'meandros' via Greek 'Maiandros', referring to the winding river. Visualize a river twisting and turning, representing a journey without a straight path.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Meander is a versatile verb that describes moving in a winding or curving way, or following a circuitous path, often with no clear destination. It can also mean wandering aimlessly, letting circumstances or surroundings steer your steps. Use meander when a route, stream, or thought twists rather than goes straight, or when someone explores without a fixed plan. The etymology traces back to meandros, a Greek word for a winding river, passed into Latin as meandros and into English as meander. Visualize a river bending and looping as a metaphor for a journey that lacks a straight path but contains discovery along the bends.
Usage Reminders
- - Meander describes winding movement, not a straight dash.
- - Use for roads, rivers, thoughts, or plans that twist or lack a fixed destination.
- - Compare with wander when you want a broader sense of aimless roaming.
- - Pair with along/through/about to show the path.
- - Avoid meander for quick, purposeful actions or direct instructions.
Common Misconceptions
- Meander only means moving slowly or aimlessly, not moving purposefully along a winding path
- Meander can be used as a noun in all contexts
- Meander always implies literary or poetic tone
- Meander describes people only, not things like roads or rivers
- Meander replaces 'wander' in all cases
Thinking Differences
In English, meander often carries a mild, descriptive tone and can imply a comfortable, unrushed exploration. Learners may overextend it to situations that require precision or purpose, or confuse it with wander where intentionality is unstated. Keep in mind that meander emphasizes path shape more than speed, and it commonly collocates with along, through, or around.
Learning Tips
- 1) Practice with a map: describe roads that meander rather than straight highways.
- 2) Use with prepositions: meander along, through, around.
- 3) Pair with nouns like river, road, thought, journey.
- 4) Compare with wander for aimless travel vs deliberate detours.
- 5) Create short stories showing a character meandering through a city.
- 6) Listen for natural collocations in native speech
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'meander' mean?
A.Walk aimlessly
B.Gardening
C.Run quickly
D.Swim competitively
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'meander' used correctly?
A.She meandered her way to the finish line.
B.He sprinted in a meander race.
C.The river flowed in a straight line without meandering.
D.Their car meanderingly crossed the finish line.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'meander'?
A.Pace
B.Sprint
C.Direct
D.Stroll
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'meander'?
A.Wander
B.March
C.Straighten
D.Roam
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you expect to see 'meander'?
A.A cheetah sprinting after prey
B.A river winding through a valley
C.A student taking a test quickly
D.A chef cooking in a hurry
Related Listening
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