Sweep Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sweep

[swiːp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

cleaning

To clean an area by brushing away dirt or debris, typically using a broom or brush. Sweeping is a common household chore that helps maintain cleanliness and order.

Synonyms

brush, clean, clear, tidy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sweep	Used when referring to cleaning surfaces, especially floors, by moving dirt or dust away with a broom. She swept the kitchen floor after dinner to make it spotless. Please sweep the porch before guests arrive.
clean	Used in a general sense to refer to making something free of dirt, marks, or stains. She spent the morning cleaning the house from top to bottom. Make sure to clean the windows thoroughly.
tidy	Means organizing and putting things in their correct places, often to make a space look neat and orderly. She tidied her room before her friends arrived. He always keeps his desk tidy and well-organized.
clear	Usually refers to removing objects or obstructions from an area to make it free or empty. Please clear the table after dinner. He cleared the driveway of snow so the car could pass.
brush	Used when talking about removing dirt, dust, or particles from surfaces or objects using a brush. He brushed the crumbs off the table after breakfast. You should brush the dog's fur to keep it neat and clean.

Examples of usage

He swept the floor before the guests arrived.
She sweeps the porch every morning.
The janitor swept the hallway after school.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sports

A wide movement made with a broom or similar object to clear a path for an object to travel. In sports such as curling, sweeping is used to control the speed and direction of the object being thrown.

Synonyms

action, movement, stroke.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sweep	Used to describe the action of cleaning the floor with a broom or moving something in a wide, curving motion. She had to sweep the kitchen floor every day. His arm made a wide sweep as he pointed to the horizon.
movement	Describes a change in position or place; can also mean a group of people working towards a common goal. There was a sudden movement in the bushes. The civil rights movement was pivotal in American history.
stroke	Can refer to the act of hitting something, a gentle movement of the hand, or a medical condition related to the brain. He completed the painting with a few bold strokes. She gave the cat a gentle stroke. Early intervention is crucial for stroke patients.
action	Refers to the process of doing something, typically to achieve an aim. His quick action saved the child from drowning. The government promised to take action on climate change.

Examples of usage

The sweep of the broom helped guide the stone to the target.
The team coordinated their sweeps to direct the ball towards the goal.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

In many cultures, sweeping is considered a ritual for cleaning out bad luck and welcoming positive energy, especially during New Year celebrations.
The Chinese practice of 'sweeping the tombs' involves cleaning ancestor graves as a way of honoring them during the Qingming Festival.
In Japan, the act of sweeping is often seen as a form of meditation, with a focus on maintaining harmony and cleanliness.

Literature

In Shakespeare's works, sweeping is often used metaphorically to describe vast changes or movements in society and character.
Certain poems use the image of a sweeping gesture to illustrate emotional release or the act of letting go of the past.
The phrase 'sweep you off your feet' is commonly used in literature to describe someone who makes a powerful impression.

Science

The action of sweeping can actually disturb dust particles, which can lead to them becoming airborne before settling again.
Studies in environmental science suggest that regular sweeping indoors can reduce allergens compared to leaving floors uncleaned.
The use of different materials in broom construction has evolved to improve efficiency in sweeping up various debris types.

Pop Culture

The term 'sweep' has found its way into sports, especially in curling, where players sweep the ice to influence the stone's movement.
In films and television, sweeping gestures or scenes often symbolize transitions, such as moving from one phase of life to another.
Singing and dance choreography often include sweeping movements to convey grace and fluidity, prominently seen in musicals.

Origin of 'sweep'

Main points about word origin

The word 'sweep' comes from the Old English word 'swēopan,' which meant to 'remove' or 'clear away.'
It has been used since the 12th century to describe the action of moving something away with a sweeping gesture.
The term has evolved to include not just cleaning but also figurative uses, like 'sweeping changes' in various contexts.

The word 'sweep' originated from Old English swapan, which means to beat, strike, or sweep. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the action of cleaning by brushing away dirt or debris. The use of a broom as a cleaning tool has been traced back to ancient civilizations, where various types of brushes and brooms were used to sweep floors and outdoor areas. Today, 'sweep' is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts, symbolizing the act of thorough cleaning or clearing.

See also: sweeper, sweeping, sweepstakes.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,792 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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