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Definition of sidestroke

sidestroke

/ˈsaɪdˌstroʊk/
side · stroke
Plural:sidestrokes
•
Past Simple:sidestroked
•
Past Participle:sidestroked
•
Present Participle:sidestroking
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sidestroke Lexical Profile

sidestroke Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A swimming stroke performed while lying on one's side, using a scissor kick and alternating arm movements beneath the surface of the water.

Example

"The lifeguard instructor demonstrated how the sidestroke allows a swimmer to tow an exhausted person while keeping their head above water."

• verb

1

To swim using the sidestroke.

Example

"She sidestroked lazily across the calm lake to conserve her energy for the long swim back to the dock."

• Nearby Words

sidestep
sidestream
sidestreet
sidestroke
sideswipe
sidetrack
sidetrip

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sidestroke. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sidestroke
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