slew
UK: sluː | US: sluː
n. a large number or quantity of something
vt. to turn or slide violently or uncontrollably
vi. (of a vehicle or person) to skid or slide sideways
The word "slew" has dual origins. As a noun meaning "a large number," it likely derives from Irish sluagh ("host, multitude"), reflecting its use in English to describe an overwhelming quantity. As a verb meaning "to turn or slide violently," it stems from Old English slēan ("to strike"), evolving through nautical and mechanical contexts to describe uncontrolled movement. The convergence of these roots gives "slew" its versatile modern meanings.
The project generated a slew of complaints from residents.
The car slewed across the icy road before hitting the barrier.
He slewed the telescope to focus on a distant star.
A slew of new regulations were introduced this year.
The truck’s brakes failed, causing it to slew dangerously downhill.