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sweep

Definition

  • verb: to remove (something, such as dust or dirt) from a surface with a broom or brush or with a quick movement of your hand, fingers, etc.
  • verb: to remove from a surface with or as if with a broom or brush
  • usually singular
  • synonyms: sweeper, slam, rush

Examples

  • The new governor has made a 'clean sweep' of the staff in the governor's mansion. [=the new governor completely replaced the former governor's staff]

  • He gave the floor/room a quick 'sweep'. [=he swept the floor/room quickly]

  • The election was a 'clean sweep' for local Democratic candidates.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) Make sure your uniforms are covering the sidewalk entrances and exits. Hey... let's have, uh, periodic sweeps of the men's lav. You, here. What qualifies me to be a future stewardess? Well, I think that I'm really friendly (..)
    2002 Catch Me If You Can