"Sweep" Definition

Definitions for the word "Sweep" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. v.
(past and past part. Swept) 1 clean or clear (a room or area etc.) (as) with a broom. 2 (often foll. By up) clean a room etc. In this way. 3 (often foll. By up) collect or remove (dirt etc.) By sweeping. 4 (foll. By aside, away, etc.) A push (as) with a broom. B dismiss abruptly. 5 (foll. By along, down, etc.) Carry or drive along with force. 6 (foll. By off, away, etc.) Remove or clear forcefully. 7 traverse swiftly or lightly. 8 impart a sweeping motion to. 9 swiftly cover or affect. 10 a glide swiftly; speed along. B go majestically. 11 (of landscape etc.) Be rolling or spacious. n. 1 act or motion of sweeping. 2 curve in the road, sweeping line of a hill, etc. 3 range or scope. 4 = *chimney-sweep. 5 sortie by aircraft. 6 colloq. = *sweepstake. make a clean sweep of 1 completely abolish or expel. 2 win all the prizes etc. In (a competition etc.). Sweep away abolish swiftly. Sweep the board 1 win all the money at stake. 2 win all possible prizes etc. Sweep under the carpet see *carpet. [old english]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
2. slang
a contemptuous term for a low or shabby man.
Source: The Slang Dictionary, 1864

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "Sweep" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "Sweep" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
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