Drifting
ˈdrɪftɪŋ
Definitions
2 meaningsTo move slowly, especially because of a current or wind, without control or a plan.
ˈdrɪftɪŋ
To be carried slowly by a current of water or air.
The boat drifted lazily down the river.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're in a boat, and there's no motor, and the wind or water is slowly pushing you along. That's drifting! Like, "The balloon was drifting in the sky."
👶 For kids: To move slowly like a boat on the water.
More Examples
Clouds were drifting across the sky.
He let his mind drift as he listened to the music.
How It's Used
"The sailboat was drifting aimlessly in the calm sea."
"The plane was drifting slightly off course due to the wind."
To gradually move or change your position or opinion.
ˈdrɪftɪŋ
To move or change slowly from one state or condition to another.
The discussion drifted from the initial topic.
💡 Simply: Sometimes your thoughts or a conversation gently change direction. Like when a talk about weather suddenly becomes about your vacation. That's the conversation *drifting* towards a new subject!
👶 For kids: To slowly change like when your dreams start going to a different place.
More Examples
Her attention started to drift during the lecture.
Over time, their political views began to drift apart.
How It's Used
"The conversation drifted toward the topic of politics."
"He felt his focus drifting as he read the long article."
From Middle English *driften*, from Old English *drīfan* ('to drive, impel') + -ing.
Used in early nautical contexts to describe the movement of ships and other vessels.
Memory tip
Imagine a leaf floating down a river; it's drifting.
Word Origin
"to drive, push"