drift Definition
- 1to be carried along by currents of air or water
- 2a general meaning or tendency of something
Using drift: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "drift" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The boat drifted slowly down the river.
Example
The clouds drifted across the sky.
Example
He drifted off to sleep during the movie.
Example
There is a drift towards more conservative policies in the government.
Example
The drift of the conversation was towards politics.
drift Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with drift
Example
After college, we drifted apart and lost touch.
Example
I always drift off during long car rides.
Example
He spent his days drifting along the river in his boat.
Origins of drift
from Old Norse 'drift', meaning 'snowdrift'
Summary: drift in Brief
The verb 'drift' [drɪft] means to be carried along by air or water currents, or to gradually fall asleep. The noun 'drift' refers to the general meaning or tendency of something, such as a conversation or policy. Phrases like 'drift apart' and 'drift off' are common, while idioms are rare. Synonyms include 'float,' 'waft,' and 'trend,' while antonyms include 'anchor' and 'stabilize.'