Swipe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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swipe

[swʌɪp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

using a touchscreen device

To move one's finger across a touchscreen in order to interact with or control the device.

Synonyms

drag, scroll, slide.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
swipe	See first entry for 'swipe'.
scroll	Used primarily for describing the action of moving up or down through content on a screen, such as in documents, websites, or social media feeds. You need to scroll down to read the entire article. She scrolled through her Facebook feed for updates.
slide	Commonly refers to gently moving an object or finger across a surface. Often used in presentations or touchscreen interactions. Slide the image to the left to reveal the text. In his presentation, he used slides to explain the concept.
drag	Typically used in the context of clicking or tapping on an object and moving it to a different location on a screen, like in computer operations or touch interfaces. Drag the icon into the trash bin to delete it. You can drag the window to the side to see more content.

Examples of usage

She swiped left to delete the email.
You can swipe right to unlock the phone.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

the act of swiping

A quick movement of one's finger across a touchscreen or a card reader.

Synonyms

gesture, pass, stroke.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
swipe	Used when indicating a quick, sweeping motion, often with the hand or a finger. Common in describing actions on touchscreens or quick, forceful movements. She swiped left on the screen to dismiss the notification. He swiped the card through the reader to make a payment.
stroke	Used when describing a gentle, continuous movement over a surface, often to indicate petting or a smooth, flowing motion. Can also apply to certain medical contexts such as a type of cerebrovascular accident. She stroked the cat’s fur lovingly. He learned to improve his swimming stroke.
pass	Used to indicate the action of moving something from one person to another, or to go beyond something. Common in sports or during the transfer of objects. He asked her to pass the salt. The player made a perfect pass to his teammate.
gesture	Used to describe a movement of a part of the body, especially a hand or the head, to express an idea or meaning. Often used in the context of non-verbal communication. She made a welcoming gesture with her hand. His gesture of goodwill was appreciated by all.

Examples of usage

The payment was made with a simple swipe of the credit card.
The swipe of his finger unlocked the device.

Translations

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

Origin of 'swipe'

The term 'swipe' in the context of using a touchscreen device originated in the early 21st century with the rise of smartphones and tablets. It likely derived from the physical action of swiping a card through a card reader. The verb 'swipe' has since become a common term in the digital age to describe the action of moving one's finger across a touchscreen to interact with technology.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,737, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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25734 necropsy
25735 phantasy
25736 floundering
25737 swipe
25738 neurogenic
25739 cacti
25740 unsubstantiated
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