1. a glancing blow to the side of something
2. an indirect or unexpected criticism or attack
Usage: informal

1. to hit the side of something, especially a vehicle, while passing
2. to criticize or attack someone indirectly or unexpectedly
Usage: informal

Examples

• The truck sideswipes parked cars when turning too sharply.
• She sideswipes her opponent’s argument during the debate.
• The minor accident was just a sideswipe that left scratches on both vehicles.
• His comment was a sideswipe at the company’s poor management.
• The bus driver carefully avoided sideswipes with the narrow bridge railings.
• The article sideswipes several politicians without naming them directly.
• Insurance covered the damage from the sideswipe in the parking lot.