Meaning & Definition of word "Swipe"

Swipe

/swaɪp/

noun:

  • 1. A quick or sweeping motion, often with the hand or a device.
    • Example: With one quick swipe, she erased the text on the screen.
  • 2. An act of stealing or taking something, especially in a casual or nonchalant manner.
    • Example: His swipe of my pen went unnoticed by everyone in the room.
  • 3. A movement to read or interact with a touch screen.
    • Example: The app requires a swipe to access the next page.

verb:

  • 1. To move a hand, finger, or object quickly across a surface.
    • Example: She swiped her finger across the screen to unlock her phone.
  • 2. To steal or take something, usually in a dishonest manner.
    • Example: He swiped a candy bar from the store without paying.
  • 3. To make a quick, sweeping motion to remove or clear something.
    • Example: He swiped the dust off the table with his hand.

Etymology

Early 20th century from the verb 'swipe', of unknown origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

swipe right:

To indicate approval or liking, especially on dating apps.

swipe left:

To indicate disapproval or rejection, especially on dating apps.

swipe card:

To use a magnetic card by sliding it through a reader.

Related Words

slap:

To hit someone or something with an open hand.

steal:

To take something belonging to someone else without permission.

Slang Meanings of swipe

Meaning: To steal something.

Example Sentence: He swiped a candy bar from the store.

Meaning: To quickly use or access something.

Example Sentence: She swiped through her photos on her phone.