Definition of the word slew

The origin of the word "slew" can be traced back to the Old English word "slāwan," which meant "to turn" or "to lay aside." The Middle English form of the word, "slo(o)we," was derived from the Old English word, and it initially retained its original meaning, which was "to lay aside" or "to cause to turn." However, during the 16th century, the term began to take on a more specific meaning in the context of nautical usage. In this context, the word "slew" described the act of turning a ship's helm to make it change direction. In essence, it referred to a sizable or significant turn, as opposed to a smaller, more gradual one. The use of "slew" in this nautical context continued well into the 20th century, and over time, the term began to take on broader meanings in other contexts, including engineering, agriculture, and sports. In modern-day English, the word "slew" is commonly used to describe the act of turning or rotating something quickly and forcefully, often with the intention of redirecting it in a new direction. In summary, the word "slew" has evolved over time from its Old English roots, acquiring a more specific meaning in a nautical context before expanding to a broader range of contexts as it became more widely used. Its origins remain rooted in the fundamental meaning of "to turn" or "to lay aside," a foundation that has allowed it to continue evolving and adapting to suit new contexts over time.