Sweeper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sweeper

[หˆswiหpษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cleaning equipment

A sweeper is a person or device that cleans floors by collecting dust and dirt into a container. Sweepers are commonly used in households, offices, and public spaces to maintain cleanliness.

Synonyms

cleaner, dust collector, floor sweeper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sweeper

Repeats the first 'sweeper' entry as it's the same word.

  • The city deployed a street sweeper to clean the roads after the parade
cleaner

Can refer to a person or a device that cleans various surfaces and objects, not limited to floors. It has a general application.

  • Maria works as a cleaner at the office building
dust collector

Usually refers to an industrial machine or device used to collect and remove dust from the air in industrial settings or workshops.

  • The woodshop installed a dust collector to manage the sawdust generated by the machines
floor sweeper

Specifically refers to a tool or machine designed for sweeping floors; more specific than 'sweeper'.

  • The janitor used a floor sweeper to clean the gymnasium

Examples of usage

  • The sweeper comes with different attachments for cleaning different types of surfaces.
  • She hired a professional sweeper to clean her house before the party.
  • The mechanical sweeper efficiently cleaned the streets in the early morning.
  • Using a sweeper regularly can help prevent dust allergies.
  • I need to empty the container of the sweeper before I start cleaning again.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Modern street sweepers can be large vehicles equipped with brushes and vacuums to clean roadways efficiently.
  • Robotic sweepers are becoming popular for indoor cleaning, using sensors to navigate and avoid obstacles.

Pop Culture

  • In sports, a 'sweeper' in soccer is a defensive player who clears the ball from the goal area, reflecting teamwork and strategy.
  • Animated characters like 'Dusty' in Disneyโ€™s 'Planes' are depicted as brave sweepers, showcasing their abilities to tackle challenges.

Environmental Impact

  • Regular street sweeping helps reduce pollution by removing debris that could wash into waterways during rain.
  • Many cities have adopted cleaner, more efficient sweeping methods to promote sustainability and protect the environment.

History

  • The first recorded street sweepers were manual, linking to urban development in ancient civilizations!
  • In the 19th century, horse-drawn sweepers became popular in cities, reflecting changes in technology and urban cleaning practices.

Origin of 'sweeper'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sweeper' comes from the Old English 'swฤ“opan', which means to sweep or to clean.
  • Historically, the term was associated with various cleaning tools before becoming linked to people who sweep.

The word 'sweeper' originated from the verb 'sweep', which dates back to Old English and Proto-Germanic languages. The concept of using a device or person to sweep floors has been around for centuries, evolving from manual brooms to modern mechanical sweepers. The importance of cleanliness led to the development of various types of sweepers to efficiently clean different surfaces.


See also: sweep, sweeping, sweepstakes.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,266, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.