Swerve

Verb

Definition: To change direction suddenly or deviate from a straight path.

Synonyms: Veer, Curve, Turn, Divert

Antonyms: Continue, Stay on course, Straighten

Examples:

The car swerved sharply to avoid hitting the pedestrian.
The cyclist had to swerve to avoid a pothole.

Mnemonics:

Think of swerving as a sudden change in direction while driving.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English, from Old English 'swerfan', related to Old Frisian 'swerva' and Middle Low German 'sweren'.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the Middle Ages, specifically referring to a sudden change in direction while traveling.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Swerve off the beaten path"

Explanation:

To deviate from the usual or expected course or approach.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'swerve' with 'swerve out' or 'swerve in'.

Explanation:

'Swerve' alone implies a sudden change in direction, while 'swerve out' means to move out of one's lane or path, and 'swerve in' means to move into a different lane or path.