sways; swayed; swaying
1
: to move slowly back and forth
branches swaying in the breeze
He swayed a moment before he fainted.
2
: to cause (someone) to agree with you or to share your opinion
The lawyer tried to sway the jury.
She persisted in her argument, but I wouldn't let her sway me.
—often used as (be) swayedHe can be easily swayed.
1
: a slow movement back and forth
the sway of the ship
the sexy sway of her hips
2
: a controlling force or influence
He has them under his sway. [=he controls them]
He has come/fallen under the sway of terrorists.
The ancient Romans held sway over most of Europe.
The theory still holds sway today. [=still influences people today]
Cite this Entry
“Sway.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/sway. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.
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