Swaying: meaning, definitions and examples

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swaying

[sweɪɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a dance

Moving rhythmically from side to side, especially in time to music.

Synonyms

oscillating, rocking, swinging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
swaying	Usually refers to a smooth, gentle movement back and forth or side to side. This can describe the motion of people, trees, or objects in calm conditions. The flowers were swaying in the breeze She was swaying to the rhythm of the music
rocking	Often describes a stronger, more pronounced back-and-forth motion, which can be comforting or soothing. Commonly used for chairs or cradles. The baby fell asleep in the rocking chair The boat was gently rocking on the waves
oscillating	Typically used in a more technical or mechanical context, or to describe a regular, rhythmic movement from side to side. The fan was oscillating to cool the whole room The pendulum of the clock was oscillating back and forth
swinging	Describes an arcing or circular motion, often used when referring to playground swings or a more vigorous activity. The children were happily swinging on the playground He was swinging the bat with all his strength

Examples of usage

He was swaying to the beat of the music.
The crowd swayed in unison at the concert.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

influence or persuade

To influence or persuade someone to a particular viewpoint or action.

Synonyms

convince, influence, persuade.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
swaying	Used to describe the act of causing someone to change their opinion or decision, often with a gentle or emotional appeal. Can imply a lack of strong control or firmness. The heartfelt story swayed the jury's verdict in her favor.
convince	Appropriate when logically or rationally making someone accept a truth or believe something. Typically involves presenting strong arguments or evidence. She managed to convince her parents to let her go on the trip by showing them a detailed itinerary.
persuade	Indicates a more direct and often personal effort to get someone to do or believe something, typically using reasoning or argumentation. After a long discussion, she finally persuaded him to join the volunteer organization.
influence	Used when exerting a more subtle or indirect force on someone's thoughts, actions, or behaviors. Can be either positive or negative. His mentors significantly influenced his career choices.

Examples of usage

The politician tried to sway public opinion with her speech.
The advertisement swayed consumers to purchase the product.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'sway' comes from Old English 'sweigan,' which means to swing or sway.
Originally used in Middle English in the late 14th century, it reflected both physical and metaphorical movements.
The early uses of 'sway' often referred to power or influence, tying the motion to control.

Cultural Significance

In dance, the concept of 'swaying' is essential, often expressing emotions and storytelling through movement.
Traditional folk dances around the world frequently include swaying motions that symbolize connection to nature or community.
In literature, characters swaying in the breeze often symbolize freedom and the passage of time.

Science

Swaying motions can be observed in nature, such as trees bending in the wind, which helps them absorb shocks and avoid breaking.
In physics, sway can be analyzed as harmonic motion, important in designing buildings to withstand earthquakes.
Studies have shown that gentle swaying can have calming effects on infants, promoting relaxation and sleep.

Psychology

Swaying can be a non-verbal way of communicating emotions, often indicating comfort or anxiety depending on the context.
Research suggests that people swaying gently can feel more connected to music and enhance their enjoyment while dancing.
Therapeutic practices often incorporate swaying movements to reduce stress and anxiety, linking motion to emotional well-being.

Pop Culture

In various music videos and performances, artists use swaying movements to convey emotion and connect with their audience.
The 'sway' of a partner is often celebrated in romantic films, symbolizing love and intimacy during slow dances.
Swaying has inspired numerous song titles, reflecting themes of love and longing in popular music.

Translations

Translations of the word "swaying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 balançando

🇮🇳 झूलना

🇩🇪 schwankend

🇮🇩 bergoyang

🇺🇦 гойдання

🇵🇱 kołysanie

🇯🇵 揺れる

🇫🇷 balancement

🇪🇸 balanceo

🇹🇷 sallanma

🇰🇷 흔들림

🇸🇦 تأرجح

🇨🇿 houpání

🇸🇰 kolísanie

🇨🇳 摇摆

🇸🇮 zibanje

🇮🇸 sveifla

🇰🇿 тербелу

🇬🇪 ქანაობა

🇦🇿 yellənmə

🇲🇽 balanceo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,758, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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14755 slippers
14756 rescinded
14757 cuff
14758 swaying
14759 palsy
14760 overweight
14761 admiralty
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