swape

noun

ˈswāp

plural -s

1

dialectal, England : a pole or bar used as a lever or swivel

2

dialectal, England : a long steering oar used by keelmen on the Tyne

Word History

Etymology

Middle English swaipe lever, swivel, probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse sveipr fold, sveipa to sweep, swoop

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!