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Synonyms

sidearm

American  
[sahyd-ahrm] / ˈsaɪdˌɑrm /

adverb

  1. with a swinging motion of the arm moving to the side of the body at shoulder level or below and nearly parallel to the ground.

    to pitch sidearm.


adjective

  1. thrown or performed sidearm.

    a sidearm curve ball; sidearm stroke.

Etymology

Origin of sidearm

First recorded in 1925–30; side 1 + arm 1

Vocabulary lists containing sidearm

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Lesch’s delivery had one major flaw: He threw directly overhand, as opposed to three-quarters or even sidearm, which can increase velocity but also places additional strain on the shoulder and elbow.

From Los Angeles Times May 4, 2026

From 1985 to 2021, the Beretta M9 was the standard-issue sidearm for the American military.

From The Wall Street Journal Feb. 16, 2026

Scrambling to his left, quarterback Sam Howell saw a slight opening and slid the ball into it with a sidearm throw.

From Washington Times Dec. 3, 2023

Does the Environmental Justice Officer carry a sidearm?

From Salon Feb. 24, 2023

“Good. Then sign yourself out a sidearm, and proceed to the target area.”

From "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer

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