Slew: meaning, definitions and examples

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slew

 

[ sluห ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

large number

The term 'slew' refers to a large number or quantity of something. It is often used in informal contexts to describe an abundance or excessive amount. For instance, one might say, 'There were a slew of reports to review,' indicating that there are many reports. This usage highlights the idea of plurality or multitude.

Synonyms

a lot, heap, multitude, myriad

Examples of usage

  • There were a slew of options to choose from.
  • She received a slew of messages after announcing her engagement.
  • The event attracted a slew of attendees.
Context #2 | Verb

to turn

As a verb, 'slew' means to turn or rotate something sharply. It is commonly used in mechanical contexts, such as adjusting the direction of a vehicle or object. An example would be, 'He slew the car to avoid the obstacle,' indicating a quick change in direction. This usage often conveys a sense of forcefulness or urgency.

Synonyms

pivot, rotate, swivel, turn

Examples of usage

  • The pilot slew the plane to the left.
  • She slew the camera to capture the panoramic view.
  • He had to slew the steering wheel to avoid the crash.

Translations

Translations of the word "slew" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น vasta gama

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฌเคนเฅเคค

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Menge

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ banyak

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฑะตะทะปั–ั‡

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ mnรณstwo

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใŸใใ•ใ‚“

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท beaucoup

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ mucho

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท รงok

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋งŽ์€

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุงู„ูƒุซูŠุฑ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ mnoho

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ mnoลพstvo

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅพˆๅคš

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ mnoลพica

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ margt

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะบำฉะฟ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ‘แƒ”แƒ•แƒ แƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ รงox

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ mucho

Etymology

The word 'slew' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old English word 'slฤ“aw,' which means 'to incline or lean.' Over time, its meaning evolved, and by the late 19th century, it started being used more broadly to indicate a large number of something. In American English, it became particularly popular in the 20th century, often used in informal speech and writing to emphasize abundance. The verb form of 'slew' relating to turning or rotating is believed to be derived from the earlier meanings related to movement or shifting positions, making it a versatile term that describes both quantity and action.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,807, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.