swipe

B1 · Intermediate

v. to pull a plastic card through a machine that reads its information.

v. to pass a magnetic stripe card through a reader to facilitate a transaction or grant access.

“Please swipe your card again because the machine didn't read it.”

“The security guard watched as the employee swiped her badge to unlock the laboratory door.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Informal

v. to take something quickly or secretly without permission.

v. to steal or snatch an object, typically in a casual or opportunistic manner.

“Someone swiped my pen when I left my desk for a minute.”

“He managed to swipe a handful of biscuits from the plate while his mother was distracted by the phone.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Informal

n. a comment that criticizes someone or something.

n. a critical or insulting remark, often delivered suddenly or as part of a broader discussion.

“The politician took a swipe at his opponent during the speech.”

“The reviewer took a subtle swipe at the director's previous work, suggesting this new film was a much-needed improvement.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a quick, swinging movement with your hand or an object.

n. a forceful, sweeping motion or blow delivered with the hand, a limb, or a handheld tool.

“With one swipe of its paw, the cat knocked the glass off the table.”

“The batter missed the ball completely with a wild swipe of the bat.”