circuitous; roundabout; outflank
Meanings
3 senses · 6 examplesadjective
winding; circuitous; tortuous
literaryOriginally a literary description of physical winding or coiling, often used for roads, rivers, or mountain paths. The 〈书〉 tag indicates this classical usage.
That narrow path winds tortuously toward the mountaintop.
The river winds through the valley.
verb
to outflank; to attack from the side or rear
technicalMilitary terminology describing a tactical maneuver to bypass the enemy's front and attack from the flank or rear.
Our army decided to outflank and encircle the enemy.
They employed outflanking tactics to bypass the enemy's defensive line.
adjective
indirect; roundabout
neutralDescribes methods, speech, or thinking that is not straightforward or direct. Can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context.
He speaks very indirectly and never expresses his opinions straightforwardly.
We solved this problem through indirect means.