SWEEP

(CLEAN) [verb] [T] [past:] swept - to clean (esp. a floor) by using a brush to collect the dirt into one place from which it can be removedI found a broom to sweep the floor with.The chimney needs sweeping.Sweep the dust into the dustpan.Shall I sweep out the garden shed (= clear the dirt from its floor)? [M]The boys said they would sweep up the leaves (= collect and remove them). [M]To sweep a difficult or unpleasant situation under the carpet/(US also) under the rug/(ANZ also) under the mat is to hide it and try to keep it secret.The committee is being accused of sweeping financial problems under the carpet to avoid embarrassment and a possibly damaging scandal.