Swerve Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈ-swɜːrv/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun or Verb

Definition

A sudden and often unexpected change in direction or movement. Also, a curve or turn, especially a sharp one.

Examples

• The car swerved to avoid hitting the pedestrian.
• She swerved around the obstacle to reach the other side.
• The company plans to swerve into new markets to stay competitive.
• The road swerved sharply to the left, causing the GPS to recalibrate.
• The politician’s speech swerved wildly from one topic to another, leaving the audience confused.

Synonyms

• Turn
• Curve
• Deviate

Antonyms

• Stay on course
• Proceed as planned

Etymology

The word “swerve” originated in the 14th century from the Old French “esvirer,” meaning “to turn or bend.” It is also related to the Latin “subvertere,” meaning “to turn upside down.”

Usage Notes

In some contexts, “swerve” can be used to suggest a deliberate change in direction, while in others, it implies a sudden and involuntary movement. Be aware of the context and tone to use the word effectively.

Cultural References

“Swerve” has been used in various films, including “Swerve” (2013) and “The Internship” (2013). It has also appeared in music, such as in the song “Swerve” by the band Scissor Sisters.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• To swerve around
• To swerve from the topic

Related Words or Phrases

• Turn
• Curve
• Pivot

Collocations

• Swerve the crowd
• Take a swerve
• Swerve into the path

Frequency of Use

“Swerve” is a relatively rare word in modern language, but it has seen an increase in usage in recent years, particularly in informal contexts.

Common Misspellings

• Swearve
• Swirve