The adverb ' askew ' has an interesting etymology with Dutch origins. It is derived from the Dutch word 'schuin,' which means 'oblique' or 'slanting.' Over time, 'schuin' was adapted into Middle English as 'eskew,' which retained its meaning of something being positioned in a crooked, tilted, or off-center fashion. The transition from 'eskew' to ' askew ' reflects the evolving nature of language and its borrowings from different sources. Therefore, the etymology of ' askew ' highlights its ... Askew is used as both an adjective and an adverb to describe things or actions that are a little off, not straight, or at an angle . Make Google search results lean and tilt by searching for "tilt" or " askew ". Explore the fun and interactive Easter egg on elgooG, the ultimate destination for Google enthusiasts. Definition of askew adverb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.