v. swayed, sway·ing, sways v.intr. 1. To swing back and forth or to and fro. See Synonyms at swing. 2. To incline or bend to one side; veer: She swayed and put out a hand to steady herself. 3. a. To incline toward change, as in opinion or feeling: He swayed toward trying out for the chorus. b. To fluctuate, as in outlook. v.tr. 1. To cause to swing back and forth or to and fro: The breeze swayed the wheat. 2. To cause to incline or bend: The wind swayed the trees toward the house. 3. To exert influence or control over: His speech swayed the voters. 4. Nautical To hoist (a mast or yard) into position. 5. Archaic a. To rule or govern. b. To wield, as a weapon or scepter. n. 1. The act of moving from side to side with a swinging motion. 2. Influence or control: The mayor has a lot of sway in our town. [Middle English sweien, probably of Scandinavian origin.] swayer n. swaying·ly adv. |
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