Swept

The past tense and past participle of the verb 'sweep'. It generally means to clean a surface by brushing away dirt or debris. More broadly, 'swept' can describe moving something forcefully and quickly, often with a sweeping motion, or to cover a wide area or have a wide influence. It can also describe a sudden and forceful removal or elimination, or the encompassing of something, such as a view or emotion. The meaning depends on the context and the action being described, but nearly always includes the idea of movement, either literal or metaphorical. It can suggest thoroughness or the rapidness of something.

Swept meaning with examples

• The janitor swept the lobby floor clean after the busy morning rush, removing all traces of dust and litter. With each pass of the broom, the debris was gathered and removed from the entryway, leaving a pristine appearance. His attention to detail ensured a clean and welcoming space for everyone who entered.
• The strong winds swept across the plains, carrying tumbleweeds and swirling dust devils with them. The landscape transformed as the gusts of wind altered the environment with the speed and force of nature. The effects of the high winds were visible everywhere, as trees bent and sand danced.
• The politician's campaign swept through the country, captivating voters with promises of reform and change. His passionate speeches resonated with the public, leading to huge support. As he garnered more support, this resulted in a surge of popularity across the region.
• A wave of sadness swept over her when she received the news, momentarily overwhelming her with grief. The feeling was sudden and intense, consuming her attention and leaving her feeling dejected. She struggled to control her emotions while dealing with the unexpected events.