zig

1 of 2

noun

ˈzig 

1

a

: one of the sharp turns, angles, or alterations in a zigzag course

b

: one of the short straight lines or sections of a zigzag course at an angle to a zag

2

: a sharp alteration or change of direction (as in a process or policy)

… the quick zigs and zags of his international maneuverings.

—The New York Times

zig

2 of 2

verb

zigged; zigging

intransitive verb

: to execute a zig

—usually contrasted with zag

zigs when others zag

Synonyms of zig

Verb

• veer
• zag
• curve
• cut

Examples of zig in a Sentence

Verb

the fox zigged to the right, and the hounds followed

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

At the time, however, Bullock skipped an updo and wore her short hair pin straight with a subtle zig-zag part. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 27 Aug. 2026

The Ivorian’s ascent has been frighteningly quick, crashing his way through European football in a whirlwind of zig-zagging runs and emphatic finishes. — David Ornstein, New York Times, 24 July 2026

Verb

Her hair, in a zig-zag parting, cascades in soft, glossy waves. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 3 Sep. 2026

For her glam, Jenner opted to wear her signature long black hair straight with a zig-zag part down the middle. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 3 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

zigzag

First Known Use

Noun

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1940, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for zig

• big
• brig
• brigg
• dig
• fig
• gig
• jig
• mig
• pig
• prig
• rig
• sprig