Laxi Dictionary

English Dictionary

Define dictionary terms easily in our powerful online English dictionary.

Searching for...

No matching words found

Try a different search term or browse the dictionary

Definition sweep in British English

sweep verb

verb
/swiːp/
1

to clean a floor, the ground, or another surface using a broom (=brush with a long handle)

Example

After you've swept, you can do the washing-up.

Example

Her work consisted mainly of making coffee and sweeping the floor.

Example

I want you to sweep up the garage.

Synonyms and related words
clean up clear out clean
1.1

to clean something such as a chimney with a long brush

Example

Little children used to be used to sweep chimneys.

Synonyms and related words
clean up clear out clean
2

to move or spread quickly through an area

Example

Youngsters are risking their lives in a dangerous craze which is sweeping the country.

Example

The hurricane swept across the Gulf of California.

Example

Fire swept through the building.

Synonyms and related words
fly hasten speed
3

to move something or someone with powerful force

Example

The flood waters swept the car downstream.

Example

He was swept along the street by dozens of supporters.

Synonyms and related words
budge propel guide
3.1

to move or to carry something or someone away with a quick smooth movement

Example

He swept his son into his arms.

Synonyms and related words
fling skim slide
4

to go somewhere quickly and confidently

Example

She swept into the office and announced she could only stay ten minutes.

Synonyms and related words
fly hasten speed
4.1

to move quickly and smoothly without stopping for anyone or anything

Example

The limousine carrying the ambassador swept through the gates.

Synonyms and related words
fly hasten speed
5

to look over every part of someone or something in one continuous movement of your eyes

Example

Her gaze swept the room and she frowned.

Example

As she spoke, her eyes swept over her daughter.

Synonyms and related words
look around look at look
5.1

to shine a light in a circular or curved movement over an area, especially in order to search for something

Synonyms and related words
go through look out for seek out
6

to stretch over a large area, especially in a long wide curve

Example

The scenery was beautiful, with cool green forests sweeping down the hillsides.

Synonyms and related words
spread out disperse fan out
7

to win something easily

Synonyms and related words
medal award walk off with
7.1

to win all of the games in a series or all of the top places in a competition

Synonyms and related words
win clinch triumph
Definition sweep in British English