# swept

/ˈswɛpt/ (US) · /swˈɛpt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/swept
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. cleaned with a brush

verb · CEFR A2

cleaned a floor or surface using a broom or brush.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. moved quickly and powerfully

verb · CEFR B1

moved over a wide area with great force or speed.

For teachers: 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.

### 3. cleared of hazards

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

describes an area that has been checked and cleared of hidden dangers like mines.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Often used in military or maritime contexts regarding mines or electronic signals.

## Examples

- She swept the kitchen floor after dinner.
- The heavy rain swept across the valley, forcing the hikers to find shelter immediately.
- A wave of enthusiasm swept through the crowd as the candidate began to speak, transforming the previously quiet room into a scene of loud celebration.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.