Pronunciation

/sweɪ/

Definitions

Noun

• Sway: The act of moving or oscillating from side to side, typically gently. For example: “The boat swayed gently on the calm waters.”
• Metaphorical sway: Influence or control over others’ opinions or actions. For example: “Her words held a certain sway over the crowd.”

Verb

• To sway: To cause someone or something to move back and forth, usually with a gentle motion. For example: “The crowd swayed to the rhythm of the music.”
• To sway one’s beliefs: To change one’s opinion or stance. For example: “His arguments managed to sway some of the committee members.”

Adjective

• Swaying: Characterized by or showing a tendency to sway; oscillating. For example: “The branches of the tree were swaying in the breeze.”
• Dominant or persuasive: Having a strong influence or ability to convince. For example: “Her confident presentation held a sway over the audience.”

Phrases

• “Swayed by emotion” indicates being influenced by feelings.
• “Sway your hips” is a dance term for moving side to side.
• “Sway the balance” can mean to tip the scale in favor of one side.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The old man sat on the porch, watching the leaves sway in the wind.”
• Verb: “The magician’s sleight of hand had the audience swaying in disbelief.”
• Adjective: “Under the moonlight, the dancers moved in a mesmerizing sway.”

Synonyms

• Rock
• Oscillate
• Move back and forth
• Influence
• Dominate
• Convince
• Entrance
• Charm