Translation guide
Refers to a type of rattlesnake known for its sideways movement, or metaphorically to a sneaky or treacherous person. Also used for a type of missile.
Referring to the sidewinder rattlesnake (Crotalus cerastes), known for its distinctive sideways locomotion.
The standard Japanese term for the sidewinder snake, borrowed from English.
Describing a person who is cunning, treacherous, or strikes unexpectedly, like the snake.
Referring to the AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missile.
The standard term for the missile, same as the snake. Context distinguishes them.
The sidewinder is a venomous snake that lives in the desert.
A descriptive Japanese name meaning 'sideways-moving rattlesnake'. Less common but more transparent.
The sidewinder moves by crawling sideways.
A person who is crafty, untrustworthy, or a suspicious character. Often used for someone who cannot be taken at face value.
He's a sidewinder, so you'd better be careful.
A sly, shrewd person who is hard to deal with. Literally 'someone you can't eat', implying they are not straightforward.
That guy is a real sidewinder.
Literally 'black-bellied person', meaning someone with a malicious or scheming nature. More direct but less idiomatic for 'sidewinder'.
Rumor has it she's a sidewinder.
The fighter jet was equipped with Sidewinder missiles.