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waddle

verb

/ˈwɒdl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of waddle

To walk with short, shuffling steps, while swinging one's hips from side to side.
"We watched the penguin waddle across the ice, its plump body swaying with each step."

Detailed meaning of waddle

This type of walking is often associated with certain animals, such as penguins, ducks, or geese, who waddle because of the shape of their bodies or the way their legs are positioned. Humans may also waddle due to certain physical conditions or impairments, such as pregnancy, obesity, or injuries. Overall, the verb 'waddle' suggests a particular gait that is slow, awkward, and sometimes comical, and it often connotes a sense of playfulness, cuteness, or clumsiness, depending on the context.

Example sentences containing waddle

1. The penguin began to waddle across the icy terrain.
2. The toddler attempted to waddle towards his toys.
3. The ducklings followed their mother, learning to waddle in a straight line.
4. The chubby baby's diaper made it difficult for him to waddle comfortably.
5. The injured bird could only waddle instead of flying.
6. The pug's short legs forced it to waddle rather than run.

History and etymology of waddle

The verb 'waddle' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'wadelen,' which meant 'to wade' or 'to walk unsteadily.' 'Waddle' aptly describes the action of walking with short, shuffling steps, while swinging one's hips from side to side. It conveys a sense of an unsteady, swaying gait that is often associated with certain animals like ducks or penguins, whose anatomy causes them to move in this distinctive manner. 'Waddle' is a word that vividly captures the charming and somewhat comical quality of this type of locomotion, emphasizing the distinctive side-to-side motion that sets it apart from a more typical or graceful walk.

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Further usage examples of waddle

1. The overweight cat struggled to waddle up the stairs.
2. The toddler imitated the penguin's waddle, giggling with delight.
3. The elderly man used a cane to support his waddle.
4. The duck waddled over to the pond, ready to take a swim.
5. The waddle of ducks made its way through the park, attracting attention.
6. The penguin's waddle was adorable to watch.
7. The baby penguins learned to waddle in a synchronized manner.
8. The toddler's diaper caused him to waddle with an exaggerated gait.
9. The injured goose could only waddle on one leg.
10. The mother duck taught her ducklings how to waddle in a straight line.
11. The waddle of geese created a symphony of honking sounds.
12. The baby sea turtle waddled its way to the ocean for the first time.
13. The penguin's waddle made it difficult for it to move quickly on land.
14. The chubby dachshund's belly made it waddle as it walked.