Meaning of the word sidewinder in English

What does sidewinder mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

sidewinder

US /ˈsaɪdˌwaɪn.dər/
UK /ˈsaɪdˌwaɪn.dər/
"sidewinder" picture

Noun

1.

a small, venomous rattlesnake (Crotalus cerastes) of the southwestern US and northern Mexico, which moves by a characteristic sideways looping motion.

Example:
The desert guide warned us about the dangers of the sidewinder.
The sidewinder's unique movement allows it to travel efficiently across loose sand.
2.

a type of air-to-air missile, typically heat-seeking.

Example:
The fighter jet was armed with Sidewinder missiles.
The pilot locked onto the target with a Sidewinder.