Swipe

/swaɪp/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A quick or sweeping motion, often with the hand or a device.
With one quick swipe, she erased the text on the screen.
An act of stealing or taking something, especially in a casual or nonchalant manner.
His swipe of my pen went unnoticed by everyone in the room.
A movement to read or interact with a touch screen.
The app requires a swipe to access the next page.
verb
To move a hand, finger, or object quickly across a surface.
She swiped her finger across the screen to unlock her phone.
To steal or take something, usually in a dishonest manner.
He swiped a candy bar from the store without paying.
To make a quick, sweeping motion to remove or clear something.
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

Slang Meanings

To steal something.
He swiped a candy bar from the store.
To quickly use or access something.
She swiped through her photos on her phone.