1
a
: moving or extending in a wide curve or over a wide area
b
: having a curving line or form
2
a
: extensive
sweeping reforms
b
: marked by wholesale and indiscriminate inclusion
sweeping generalities
sweepingly
adverb
sweepingness
noun
Synonyms
Examples of sweeping in a Sentence
Noun
The porch needs a good sweeping.
Adjective
a sweeping view of the valley
He dismissed the idea with a sweeping motion of his arm.
Recent Examples on the Web
Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 16 June 2024
That storm will begin as isolated storms and bring a high threat of tornadoes and large hail, before merging and sweeping across the eastern portions of the state, like Milwaukee, and bring strong wind gusts.
—David Clarey, Journal Sentinel, 21 May 2024
Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2024
The plan from the Heritage Foundation, known as Project 2025, pitches a sweeping overhaul of the federal government should Trump win a second term, including far more power for the executive branch.
—Patrick Svitek, Washington Post, 5 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for sweeping 
Noun
Unlike the Olympic version, there is no sweeping in German curling.
—Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 16 June 2024
That storm will begin as isolated storms and bring a high threat of tornadoes and large hail, before merging and sweeping across the eastern portions of the state, like Milwaukee, and bring strong wind gusts.
—David Clarey, Journal Sentinel, 21 May 2024
Adjective
California adopts sweeping statewide water conservation framework. Column: Anthony Fauci’s memoir strikes a crucial blow against the disinformation agents who imperil our health.
—Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2024
The plan from the Heritage Foundation, known as Project 2025, pitches a sweeping overhaul of the federal government should Trump win a second term, including far more power for the executive branch.
—Patrick Svitek, Washington Post, 5 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for sweeping
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sweeping.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near sweeping
Cite this Entry
“Sweeping.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sweeping. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share