sway (sw )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. b. To fluctuate, as in outlook. v.tr. 1. To cause to swing back and forth or to and fro. 2. To cause to incline or bend to one side. 3. Nautical To hoist (a mast or yard) into position. 4. a. To divert; deflect. b. To exert influence on or control over: His speech swayed the voters. 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. Power; influence. 3. Dominion or control. [Middle English sweien, probably of Scandinavian origin.] sway  er n.sway ing·ly adv. |
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