sway (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /sweɪ/

Definition

To move slowly or rhythmically from side to side, or to make something do this.

Examples

• The music made her sway to the beat.

• The branches swayed in the breeze.

• He swayed back and forth, trying to stay awake.

How to Use sway

sway to (prepositional phrase)

To move rhythmically to a sound or beat. — "The dancers swayed to the rhythm of the drums."

sway someone (collocation)

To influence or persuade someone. — "It's hard to sway him once he's made up his mind."

sway from side to side (collocation)

To move back and forth repeatedly. — "The boat swayed from side to side on the rough sea."

Synonyms of sway

Words with a similar meaning to sway:

• rock
• swing
• influence
• affect

Antonyms of sway

Words with the opposite meaning to sway:

• stand still
• remain

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