■ verb
1》 move slowly or rhythmically backwards and forwards or from side to side.
2》 cause to change in opinion, action, etc.; influence.
3》 literary rule; govern.
■ noun
1》 a rhythmical movement from side to side.
2》 influence or rule.
Phrases
hold ~ have great power or influence.
Origin
ME: related to Low Ger. swājen 'be blown to and fro' and Du. zwaaien 'swing, walk totteringly'.