sweep
verb (used with object)
to move or remove (dust, dirt, etc.) with or as if with a broom, brush, or the like.
are sweeping
-
present progressiveof sweep.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Fueled by severe drought linked to El Niño, fires are sweeping through parts of Brazil, filling cities with smoke and threatening forests already damaged by previous fire seasons.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 18, 2026
As far as handicaps go, if you are sweeping your putts, you’re only hurting yourself and no one else…keep it enjoyable.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 5, 2026
Increasingly frustrated that the aggressive tactics are sweeping up American citizens, Democratic members of Congress have been pressing for a full accounting of the citizens detained.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 8, 2025
The government was aware these are sweeping requests.
From New York Times ● Nov. 21, 2024
It’s opening night, and it feels like an opening because even though it’s still not completely dark, those Hollywood-premiere searchlights are sweeping across the sky.
From "A High Five for Glenn Burke" by Phil Bildner
