First Known Use: 1565
Dictionary
1straddle
verb strad·dle \ˈstra-dəl\
: to sit or ride with a leg on either side of (something)
: to be on both sides of (something)
: to have parts that are in (different places, regions, etc.)
strad·dledstrad·dling \ˈstrad-liŋ, ˈstra-dəl-iŋ\
Full Definition of STRADDLE
intransitive verb
1
: to stand, sit, or walk with the legs wide apart; especially : to sit astride
2
: to spread out irregularly : sprawl
3
: to favor or seem to favor two apparently opposite sides
4
: to execute a commodities market spread
transitive verb
1
: to stand, sit, or be astride of <straddle a horse> <campsites straddling the river>
2
: to be noncommittal in regard to <straddle an issue>
3
: to belong in part to (each of several categories) <a movie straddling genres>
— strad·dler \ˈstrad-lər, ˈstra-dəl-ər\ noun
— straddle the fence
: to be in a position of neutrality or indecision
See straddle defined for English-language learners
See straddle defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of STRADDLE
irregular from stride
2straddle
noun
Definition of STRADDLE
1
: the act or position of one who straddles
2
: a noncommittal or equivocal position
3
: spread 5
First Known Use of STRADDLE
1611
STRADDLED Defined for Kids
straddle
verb strad·dle \ˈstra-dəl\
strad·dledstrad·dling
Definition of STRADDLE for Kids
1
: to stand, sit, or walk with the legs spread wide apart
2
: to stand, sit, or ride with a leg on either side of <He straddled the horse.>
3
: to seem to favor two opposite sides of <Not wanting to offend anyone, she straddled the issue.>
Learn More About STRADDLE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: straddlebackPrevious Word in the Dictionary: StradAll Words Near: straddle
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up straddle? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).