zig

American  

[zig] / zɪg /

verb (used without object)

zigged, zigging

1. to move in one of the two directions followed in a zigzag course.

   He zigged when he should have zagged.

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Usage

What does zig mean? Zig is an informal verb that means to move in one of the directions in a zigzag pattern. A zigzag is a line of alternating, sharp up-and-down turns that form peaks and valleys kind of resembling the letter Z. Zigzag can also be used as a verb meaning to move back and forth while traveling forward in a way that resembles this pattern. The word zag can be used to mean the same thing as zig. However, the two terms are typically used together, in which case they mean to move in opposite directions. This is usually used in a somewhat humorous way. Zig and zag are most commonly used in the context of physical movement, but they are sometimes used in situations in which people keep doing different things, such as when changing their minds back and forth. Example: I threw the ball where I said I was going to throw it, but you zigged when you should have zagged!

Etymology

Origin of zig

First recorded in 1785–95; extracted from zigzag

Example Sentences

Sometimes you’re smart to zig when everybody else zags.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

"Anora takes viewers on a frenetic and wild ride that goes on for a little too long as it zig zags to an inevitable outcome," said Carla Hay of Culture Mix.

From BBC • Oct. 12, 2024

But trying to think along with the team’s decision-makers, I’m guessing the Chargers will look first at hiring a head coach with an offensive background, given that teams frequently zig after they’ve zagged.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 19, 2023

That zag, when the Trojans expected a zig, created a career game for tailback Dillon Johnson and preserved the undefeated season.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 6, 2023

He’d zig left and right, escaping the girls each time they came within tagging distance.

From "One Crazy Summer" by Rita Williams-Garcia