a large number or quantity of something, to turn or slide violently or uncontrollably in a particular direction

a whole slew of, slew around, slew off

slew rate, slew-footed, slew ring

Formal and Informal Expressions of slew

In different contexts, you can replace 'slew' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'abundance, plethora' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'ton, load' is a commonplace synonym.

slew: Explore its Definition & Usage

slew Definition

1a large number or quantity of something
2to turn or slide violently or uncontrollably in a particular direction

Using slew: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "slew" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He had a slew of books to read for his literature class.
Example
The car slewed across the road and hit a tree.
Example
The company has been accused of a slew of unethical practices.
Example
She received a slew of awards for her performance in the film.

slew Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for slew

Antonyms for slew

Idioms Using slew

a whole slew of
a large number or quantity of something
Example
She brought a whole slew of snacks for the road trip.
slew around
to turn or pivot quickly in a different direction
Example
He slewed around to face his opponent.
slew off
to move away or depart quickly
Example
She slewed off to catch her train.

Phrases with slew

slew rate
the maximum rate of change of an electrical signal
Example
The amplifier's slew rate determines its ability to reproduce high-frequency signals.
slew-footed
having feet that turn outward
Example
He walked with a distinctive gait due to being slew-footed.
slew ring
a type of bearing that allows rotation around a central axis
Example
The crane's slew ring allows it to rotate 360 degrees.

Origins of slew

originally Irish and Scottish English, from Old Irish 'slúag', meaning 'an army'

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Summary: slew in Brief

The term 'slew' [sluː] refers to a large quantity of something, as in 'He had a slew of books to read for his literature class.' It can also mean to turn or slide violently or uncontrollably in a particular direction, as in 'The car slewed across the road and hit a tree.' 'Slew' extends into phrases like 'a whole slew of,' and idioms like 'slew around,' denoting quick pivots, and 'slew off,' implying quick departures.