sway

/ˈsweɪ̯/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: sways · swaying · swayed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

The act of swaying; a swaying motion; a swing or sweep of a weapon.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A rocking or swinging motion.

Noun

Examples

The old song caused a little sway in everyone in the room.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To move or swing from side to side; or backward and forward; to rock.

Verb

Examples

sway to the music

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To move or wield with the hand; to swing; to wield.

Verb

Examples

to sway the sceptre

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “sway” mean?

The act of swaying; a swaying motion; a swing or sweep of a weapon.

Is “sway” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.