Definition of slash

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slash    (slsh) KEY 

VERB:
slashed, slash·ing, slash·es
VERB:
tr.

1. To cut or form by cutting with forceful sweeping strokes: slash a path through the underbrush.
2. To lash with sweeping strokes.
3. To make a gash or gashes in.
4. Sports To swing a stick at (an opponent) in ice hockey or lacrosse, in violation of the rules.
5. To cut a slit or slits in, especially so as to reveal an underlying color: slash a sleeve.
6. To criticize sharply: The reviewers slashed the composer's work.
7. To reduce or curtail drastically: slash prices for a clearance sale.

VERB:
intr.

1. To make forceful sweeping strokes with or as if with a sharp instrument.
2. To cut one's way with such strokes: We slashed through the dense jungle.

NOUN:

1. A forceful sweeping stroke made with a sharp instrument.
2. A long cut or other opening made by such a stroke; a gash or slit.
3. A decorative slit in a fabric or garment.
4. Branches and other residue left on a forest floor after the cutting of timber.
5. Wet or swampy ground overgrown with bushes and trees. Often used in the plural.
6. Printing A virgule.

CONJUNCTION:
Informal

As well as; and. Used in combination and often rendered as a virgule in print: an actor-slash-writer; a waiter/dancer.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Perhaps from obsolete French esclachier, to break, variant of esclater, from Old French, from esclat, splinter ; see slat