switch
[ swich ]
/ swɪtʃ /
noun
verb (used with object)
verb (used without object)
Idioms for switch
asleep at the switch, Informal.
failing to perform one's duty, missing an opportunity, etc., because of negligence or inattention: He lost the contract because he was asleep at the switch.
Origin of switch
1585–95; earlier
swits, switz slender riding whip, flexible stick; compare Low German (Hanoverian)
schwutsche long, thin stick
SYNONYMS FOR switch
OTHER WORDS FROM switch
Words nearby switch
swiss steak,
swiss tournament,
swisser,
swissvale,
swit.,
switch,
switch box,
switch cane,
switch engine,
switch grass,
switch off
Definition for switch off (2 of 2)
switch-off
[ swich-awf, -of ]
/ ˈswɪtʃˌɔf, -ˌɒf /
noun
the act or process of switching off a power supply, light source, appliance, etc.
Origin of switch-off
noun use of verb phrase
switch off
British Dictionary definitions for switch off (1 of 2)
switch off
verb (adverb)
to cause (a device) to stop operating by or as if by moving a switch, knob, or lever; turn off
informal
to cease to interest or be interested; make or become bored, alienated, etc
British Dictionary definitions for switch off (2 of 2)
switch
/ (swɪtʃ) /
noun
verb
See also
switch off,
switch on
Derived forms of switch
switcher, noun switchlike, adjectiveWord Origin for switch
C16: perhaps from Middle Dutch
swijch branch, twig
Idioms and Phrases with switch off (1 of 2)
switch off
Stop paying attention, lose interest, as in Whenever he starts in on economics, I switch off automatically. This metaphoric expression transfers turning off a light switch or similar device to diverting one's attention. [c. 1860] Also see switch on.
Idioms and Phrases with switch off (2 of 2)
switch