Word
swept
US/ˈswɛpt/
UK/swˈɛpt/
Definitions
01cleaned with a brush
v. cleaned a floor or surface using a broom or brush.
v. the past tense of sweep, referring to the act of clearing a surface of dirt or debris using a brush.
“He swept the kitchen floor after he finished cooking dinner.”
“After the guests departed, the staff swept the ballroom floor to remove the fallen confetti and debris before the next event.”
02moved quickly and powerfully
v. moved over a wide area with great force or speed.
v. moved across an area with speed, intensity, or overwhelming force.
“A sudden wave of emotion swept over her when she saw the old house.”
“The wildfire swept through the valley with terrifying speed, consuming several hectares of dry timber before the emergency crews could establish a perimeter.”
03cleared of hazards
adj. describes an area that has been checked and cleared of hidden dangers like mines.
adj. referring to a zone or channel that has been systematically cleared of explosive devices or obstacles.
“The ships waited until the channel was swept and safe to enter.”
“The tactical team confirmed that the sector had been swept for electronic surveillance devices before the high-level negotiations commenced.”
Technical
Usage
Often used in military or maritime contexts regarding mines or electronic signals.