Meaning of the word sweep in English

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

sweep

US /swiːp/

UK /swiːp/

to clean a floor, surface, or area by brushing away dirt or litter

Example:

•

She used a broom to sweep the kitchen floor.

•

The janitor will sweep the hallways every morning.

Synonym:

brush clean clear

to move or extend in a long, continuous curve or line

Example:

•

The road began to sweep around the mountain.

•

Her gaze seemed to sweep across the entire room.

Synonym:

curve arc extend stretch

to move quickly and forcefully in a particular direction

Example:

•

The strong current will sweep you downstream.

•

A wave of panic swept through the crowd.

Synonym:

rush surge flow gush

an act of sweeping, especially to clean a surface

Example:

•

He gave the floor a quick sweep before the guests arrived.

•

The street cleaner made a thorough sweep of the area.

Synonym:

brush clean clearance

a long, continuous movement or curve

Example:

•

The elegant sweep of the staircase impressed everyone.

•

The camera made a slow sweep across the landscape.

Synonym:

curve arc movement pan

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