[sweɪ], (Verb)

Definitions:
- move or cause to move slowly or rhythmically backwards and forwards or from side to side
(e.g: he swayed slightly on his feet)

- control or influence (a person or course of action)
(e.g: he's easily swayed by other people)


Phrases:
- hold sway

Origin:
Middle English: corresponding in sense to Low German swājen ‘be blown to and fro’ and Dutch zwaaien ‘swing, walk in a tottering way’

[sweɪ], (Noun)

Definitions:
- a rhythmical movement from side to side
(e.g: the easy sway of her hips)

- rule; control
(e.g: the country was under the sway of rival warlords)


Phrases:
- hold sway

Origin:
Middle English: corresponding in sense to Low German swājen ‘be blown to and fro’ and Dutch zwaaien ‘swing, walk in a tottering way’