sway
sway Lexical Profile
sway Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To move or cause to move slowly and rhythmically backward and forward or from side to side.
"The tall pine trees swayed gently in the evening breeze."
To control, influence, or persuade someone to alter their opinion or course of action.
"Her eloquent closing argument managed to sway several undecided members of the committee."
To fluctuate or waver between different opinions, feelings, or courses of action.
"Public opinion began to sway as new economic data came to light."
• noun
A rhythmical movement from side to side.
"The gentle sway of the hammock helped the child fall asleep."
Rule, control, or sovereign influence over someone or something.
"Traditional customs still hold considerable sway in the rural provinces."
• Rhymes for sway
Word Origin & Etymology
Originating in late Middle English as 'sweyen', likely borrowed from Middle Low German 'sweien' (to swing or move in the wind) or Old Norse 'sveigja' (to bend or give way).