# zig

/ˈzɪɡ/ (US) · /zˈɪɡ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/zig
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

to move suddenly in one direction before quickly changing to another. You often use this word when describing a sharp turn or a sudden change in a plan.

For teachers: to perform a sudden, sharp change in direction or strategy, typically as part of a zigzag pattern. Often used intransitively to describe physical movement or metaphorical shifts in decision-making.

## Examples

- The rabbit started to zig and zag to escape the fox.
- When the market crashed, the investor decided to zig while everyone else was zagging by buying undervalued stocks.
- The pilot had to zig sharply to avoid the oncoming storm clouds, demonstrating the aircraft's impressive agility at high altitudes.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with 'zag' to describe a repetitive back-and-forth motion; functions as an intransitive verb.

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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.