v. & n.
--v.
1. intr. & tr. lean or cause to lean unsteadily in different directions alternately.
2 intr. oscillate irregularly; waver.
3 tr. a control the motion or direction of. b have influence or rule over.
--n.
1. rule, influence, or government (hold sway).
2 a swaying motion or position.
Phrases and idioms:
sway-back an abnormally hollowed back (esp. of a horse); lordosis. sway-backed (esp. of a horse) having a sway-back.
Etymology: ME: cf. LG swajen be blown to and fro, Du. zwaaien swing, wave