CUT A SWATHE

{v. phr.} 1a. To mow a path through a field. * /The farmer cut a swathe through the high grass with his scythe./ 1b. To cut down as if by mowing. * /The machine gun cut a swathe in the lines of enemy soldiers./ 2. {informal} To attract notice; make an impression; seem important. * /The movie star cut a wide swathe when he walked down the street./ * /John tries to show off and cut a big swathe with the girls./ Compare: GO OVER(6), MAKE A HIT.