askew

[əˈskjuː]

askew Definition

not in a straight or level position; crooked; awry.

Using askew: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "askew" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The picture on the wall was hanging askew.

  • Example

    She wore her hat askew.

  • Example

    The vase was knocked askew by the cat.

askew Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for askew

Antonyms for askew

Phrases with askew

  • out of kilter/askew

    not working properly or not in the correct position

    Example

    The door was out of kilter and wouldn't close properly.

  • put something out of its proper position

    Example

    He accidentally set the vase askew when he bumped into the table.

  • look askew at someone/something

    to look at someone or something with suspicion or disapproval

    Example

    She looked askew at him when he suggested they skip class.

Origins of askew

from Old Norse 'skewr', meaning 'to skew'

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Summary: askew in Brief

'Askew' [əˈskjuː] means not in a straight or level position, often used to describe something that is crooked or tilted. It can be used as an adverb or adjective, as in 'The picture on the wall was hanging askew.' Phrases like 'out of kilter/askew' and 'set something askew' use 'askew' to denote something that is not in the correct position. 'Look askew at someone/something' means to look at someone or something with suspicion or disapproval.