Meaning & Definition of word "Swerve"
Swerve
/swɜːrv/
noun:
- 1. a sharp turn or deviation from a straight path.
- Example: The swerve of the car was so sudden that it took everyone by surprise.
- 2. a change in direction, sometimes unexpected.
- Example: The unexpected swerve of the conversation caught her off guard.
verb:
- 1. to turn aside sharply; to change direction suddenly.
- Example: The driver had to swerve to avoid hitting the deer that jumped onto the road.
- 2. to deviate from a course or purpose.
- Example: During the debate, the candidate swerved from the main topic and started discussing unrelated issues.
Etymology
●Middle English 'swerfen', derived from Old English 'sweorfan' meaning to turn or curve.
Common Phrases and Expressions
swerve to avoid:
to change direction suddenly to avoid something
swerve off course:
to deviate from the intended path or plan
Related Words
veer:
to change direction suddenly
diverge:
to move or extend in different directions from a common point
Slang Meanings of swerve
Meaning: To abruptly stop engaging in a conversation or interaction.
● Example Sentence: He totally swerved her when she tried to talk.
Meaning: To avoid someone or something, often used in social scenarios.
● Example Sentence: I had to swerve my ex at the party.