cut a swathe {v. phr.}
1a. To mow a path through a field.
The farmer cut a swathe through the high grass with his scythe.
1b. To cut down as if by mowing.
The machine gun cut a swathe in the lines of enemy soldiers.
To attract notice; make an impression; seem important.
The movie star cut a wide swathe when he walked down the street.
John tries to show off and cut a big swathe with the girls.
Compare: GO OVER (6), MAKE A HIT. Categories: informal verb