What it means
To zigzag is to move in quick side-to-side cuts instead of going straight, whether you're dodging through a crowd, weaving round traffic, or skittering past puddles. People also sling it at someone who can't stick to one choice and keeps swerving between options. It's a mildly cheeky way to call out dithering or flip-flopping.
Usage examples
"You’ve zigzagged round Tesco for ten minutes and you’re still swapping meal deals. Grab the chicken one and stop faffing before we miss the bus."
"Make your mind up, you've zigzagged between three holidays all week and the cheap flights have already gone."
"He zigzagged through the market crowd with his bike and nearly took out a bloke carrying a tray of teas."
"Stop zigzagging and book the table, you've changed your mind three times and everyone's already hungry."
"She zigzagged across the pavement trying not to spill her chips after the pub kicked out."
Where it comes from
English took zigzag from French in the early 1700s, and French had picked it up from German Zickzack. It first meant a line or path with sharp turns, then slid naturally into everyday use for anything that moves in that back-and-forth, swerving way, including people who keep changing their mind.
Other ways to say it
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