side-on

American  

[sahyd-on, -awn] / ˈsaɪdˈɒn, -ˈɔn /

adjective

1. (of two objects) meeting with the sides foremost.

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adverb

1. with the side or sides foremost, especially in a collision.

   The other car struck me side-on.

Etymology

Origin of side-on

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Of the current cars, the McLaren MCL39 is to my eyes easily the most beautiful, especially from side-on or rear three-quarters.

From BBC • Aug. 19, 2025

The only footage that exists is grainy video shot side-on from one television camera.

From BBC • Feb. 4, 2021

Plotting the distances in 3D produces a trace of the Galaxy’s spiral arms, and shows how the disk warps at its farthest reaches, forming an S-shape when seen side-on.

From Nature • Aug. 6, 2019

He worked Tim Howard with a side-on blast and curled a 70th minute shot from Özil’s pass against the crossbar but, when it was all over, he could reflect upon a picture perfect week.

From The Guardian • Oct. 24, 2015

Orde pointed to the stern of the boat, revolving his hands in pantomime to show that the wanigan would be apt to upset if allowed to get side-on when freed.

From The Riverman by White, Stewart Edward