Meaning of Swath
A swath (pronounced swäth or swôth) refers to a broad strip or area of something, typically land, grass, or another surface that has been cut, cleared, or affected in some way. The term can also describe an extensive range or scope of influence, impact, or coverage.
Part of Speech:
- Noun
Plural Form:
- Swaths
Synonyms for Swath
Strongest Matches:
These synonyms closely match the meaning of “swath” in most contexts.
- Strip
- Band
- Stretch
- Area
- Belt
- Zone
- Section
- Region
- Territory
- Expanse
Strong Matches:
These synonyms are contextually relevant but may not be exact replacements.
- Range
- Tract
- Zone
- Spread
- Parcel
- Acreage
- Field
Weak Matches:
These words are related but may have broader or slightly different meanings.
- Path
- Row
- Sector
- Division
- Segment
- Portion
Example Sentences
Literal Usage:
- The farmer cut a swath through the wheat field with his combine harvester.
- A wide swath of the forest was cleared for new construction.
- The wildfire left a devastating swath of destruction across the valley.
Figurative Usage:
- The new technology is making a swath of jobs obsolete.
- She influenced a swath of young entrepreneurs with her business strategies.
- The policy changes affected a swath of the population.
Contextual Usage
Agriculture & Landscaping:
- Swath commonly refers to a strip of mown grass or crops left by a scythe or mower.
- Example: “He mowed a swath through the tall grass.”
Geography & Environment:
- It describes a broad area affected by natural or man-made events.
- Example: “A swath of land was devastated by the hurricane.”
Business & Economy:
- It is often used metaphorically to describe extensive influence or impact.
- Example: “The merger affected a large swath of the industry.”
Politics & Society:
- Used to indicate a significant portion of a population or area impacted by policies or events.
- Example: “The tax reforms will impact a broad swath of middle-class families.”
Related Words
Associated Terms:
- Mowing – The act of cutting grass or crops.
- Clearing – The process of removing vegetation from an area.
- Pathway – A route or strip of land used for movement.
- Territory – A defined area of land, often under control or influence.
Common Phrases & Expressions:
- Cut a wide swath – To have a significant effect or influence.
- Leave a swath of destruction – To cause extensive damage.
- Swath of land – A large, defined area of terrain.
Word History and Origins
- The word swath originates from the Old English swæth, meaning “track” or “trace.”
- Over time, its meaning evolved to include broader references to land, impact, and influence.
- The term has been commonly used in agriculture for centuries before expanding into metaphorical usage.
Idioms and Phrases
- Cut a swath – To make a significant impact or impression in a particular field.
- Mow a swath – To clear a broad area efficiently.
- A swath of influence – Refers to a wide-reaching effect or authority.
Additional Information
Etymology:
- The word swath originates from the Old English swæth, meaning “track” or “trace.”
- Over time, its meaning evolved to include broader references to land, impact, and influence.
Pronunciation Variants:
- British English: swɑːθ
- American English: swɒθ or swɑːθ
Fun Fact:
- The term swath width is commonly used in aviation, agriculture, and mapping to describe the breadth of coverage from a scanning device, aircraft, or agricultural implement.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate definitions, synonyms, and contextual examples, language usage may vary. For precise meanings and usage, consult a professional linguistic source or dictionary.
