# slalom

/ˈsɫɑɫəm/ (US) · /slˈæləm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/slalom
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a race where you must move quickly in a zigzag pattern between poles or other obstacles. It is most common in skiing, but you can also see it in canoeing or car racing.

For teachers: a timed race or competition involving a zigzag course between upright poles or other markers. While primarily associated with alpine skiing, the term applies to any event requiring rapid, alternating changes of direction around obstacles.

## Examples

- The skier moved fast through the slalom course.
- She won the gold medal after a flawless performance in the giant slalom event.
- The driver demonstrated exceptional technical skill during the urban slalom, navigating the tight sequence of cones without losing momentum or clipping the boundaries.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier in compound nouns like 'slalom skier' or 'slalom course'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.