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

The Bears’ historic 59-point Week 1 outburst means the public is likely to pour money into the over, so this is a great spot to zig when the betting public zags. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 17 Sep. 2026

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

Verb

In the ultimate model-off-duty moment, Gigi Hadid was seen wearing a humble zig-zag headband—the quintessential late-'90s and early-2000s hair accessory. — Marci Robin, Allure, 5 Oct. 2026

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