askew etymology

Etymology

The word "askew" is derived from the Middle English word "askewgh," which itself is derived from the Old English word "skew," meaning "oblique" or "slanting." The word "askew" first appeared in the English language in the 14th century.

Meaning and Origin

The word "askew" means "at an angle; not straight or level; crooked; awry." It is typically used to describe something that is not in its proper position or alignment. The word can also be used figuratively to describe something that is not right or correct.

For example, if a picture is hanging askew, it means that it is not hanging straight or level. If someone's thoughts are askew, it means that they are not thinking clearly or rationally.

The word "askew" is often used in a negative sense. However, it can also be used in a more neutral sense to simply describe something that is not straight or level. For example, if a person is walking askew, it simply means that they are not walking in a straight line.

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