skid

(skĭd)

1. The act of sliding or slipping over a surface, often sideways.
2. a. A plank, log, or timber, usually one of a pair, used as a support or as a track for sliding or rolling heavy objects.
   b. A pallet for loading or handling goods, especially one having solid sideboards and no bottom.
   c. One of several logs or timbers forming a skid road.
3. skids Nautical A wooden framework attached to the side of a ship to prevent damage, as when unloading.
4. A shoe or drag applying pressure to a wheel to brake a vehicle.
5. A runner in the landing gear of certain aircraft.
6. skids Slang A path to ruin or failure: His career hit the skids. Her life is now on the skids.

1. To slide sideways while moving because of loss of traction: The truck skidded on a patch of ice. See Synonyms at slide.
2. To slide without revolving: wheels skidding on oily pavement.
3. To move sideways in a turn because of insufficient banking. Used of an airplane.

1. To brake (a wheel) with a skid.
2. To haul on a skid or skids.