Antwise

/ˈænt.waɪz/ adverb

Definition

In the direction or manner of an ant, or proceeding in the way that ants move.

Etymology

Combination of 'ant' (the insect) and the adverbial suffix '-wise' (meaning 'in the manner of'), following the pattern of words like 'clockwise' and 'lengthwise'.

Kelly Says

The suffix '-wise' is totally productive in English—you can stick it on almost anything to mean 'in that direction or way'—so antwise humorously describes moving with the organized, methodical pace ants are famous for.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.