# swipe

/ˈswaɪp/ (US) · /swˈaɪp/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. touch screen interaction

verb · CEFR B1

to move your finger quickly across a touch screen to see more content.

For teachers: to interact with a capacitive touch interface by sliding a finger rapidly across the surface.

- You can swipe left to see the next photo in the gallery.
- Users typically swipe through several profiles before deciding which ones to engage with more deeply.

Usage: Often used with directional adverbs like 'left', 'right', 'up', or 'down'.

### 2. sliding a card

verb · CEFR B1

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

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Takes a direct object, usually a card or badge.

### 3. to steal

verb · CEFR B2 · Informal

to take something quickly or secretly without permission.

For teachers: 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.

### 4. a critical remark

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal

a comment that criticizes someone or something.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Commonly used in the phrase 'take a swipe at'.

### 5. a sweeping movement

noun · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- You need to swipe left to see the next photo.
- The app allows users to swipe through potential matches or dismiss them with a quick flick of the thumb.
- Modern interface design relies heavily on the ability to swipe between different panels, creating a seamless experience that mimics physical movement.

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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.