HELD SWAY Meaning and
Definition
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"Held sway" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation in which someone or something has a significant and influential control or power over a particular domain or a group of people. It implies a strong and unquestioned dominance or authority.
The term "held sway" originated from the idea of sway as a noun, which refers to the power to control or influence someone or something. The word "held" indicates that this power or influence has been maintained or possessed over a period of time, demonstrating stability and a sustained impact.
When a person, ideology, or institution holds sway, it means they are the prevailing force or figurehead with the ability to shape decisions, opinions, or actions within a specific context or society. This could manifest in various ways, such as the influence exerted by a charismatic leader over their followers, the dominance of a political party in a nation's governance, or the authority of a specific belief system within a religious community.
"Held sway" suggests a sense of a strong grip or control that may limit opposing or alternative viewpoints, leaving little room for dissent or alternative paths. However, it does not necessarily imply that the authority or influence is legitimate or universally accepted.
Overall, "held sway" encapsulates the concept of a prevailing and uninterrupted dominance or control exerted by someone or something in a particular context, indicating the extent of their power and influence.
Common Misspellings for HELD SWAY
- hild sway
- geld sway
- beld sway
- neld sway
- jeld sway
- ueld sway
- yeld sway
- hwld sway
- hsld sway
- hdld sway
- hrld sway
- h4ld sway
- h3ld sway
- hekd sway
- hepd sway
- heod sway
- hels sway
- helx sway
- helc sway
- helf sway
Etymology of HELD SWAY
The phrase "held sway" is an idiomatic expression derived from two separate words: "held" and "sway".
1. "Held" refers to the past tense and past participle of the verb "hold", which can mean to possess, control, or have authority over something or someone. It comes from the Old English word "healdan".
2. "Sway" is a noun that refers to control or influence over a person, group, or situation. It comes from the Old Norse word "sveigja", which means "to bend" or "to sway".
When combined, "held sway" refers to the act of having control, power, or influence over something or someone, often in a dominant or authoritative manner.
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