swipe
This word captures a sense of rapid, lateral movement, whether physical or digital. In modern technology, it describes the intuitive tactile interaction with a screen, shifting the meaning from a physical blow to a navigational command. When used to describe theft or criticism, it carries a connotation of speed and stealth. A theft is a quick, opportunistic grab, while a verbal swipe is a sharp, sudden attack intended to diminish someone's reputation or ego.
Meanings
To move one's finger across a touchscreen to scroll or change the displayed content.
"She swiped left to dismiss the notification."
To pass a plastic card through a magnetic reader to make a payment or gain access.
"The employee swiped his badge to enter the building."
To steal something quickly or secretly.
"Someone swiped my sunglasses while I was swimming."
To hit or strike something with a sweeping motion of the hand or arm.
"The cat swiped at the toy with its paw."
A sweeping blow or strike with the hand or a limb.
"The dog avoided the swipe of the larger dog."
A gesture of moving a finger across a touchscreen.
"A single swipe of the screen reveals the menu."