switch

(noun) control consisting of a mechanical or electrical or electronic device for making or breaking or changing the connections in a circuit. Synonyms: electric switch, electrical switch.

(noun) an event in which one thing is substituted for another. Synonyms: substitution, permutation, transposition, replacement. Examples: "The replacement of lost blood by a transfusion of donor blood."

(noun) hairpiece consisting of a tress of false hair; used by women to give shape to a coiffure.

(noun) railroad track having two movable rails and necessary connections; used to turn a train from one track to another or to store rolling stock.

(noun) a flexible implement used as an instrument of punishment.

(noun) a basketball maneuver; two defensive players shift assignments so that each guards the player usually guarded by the other.

(noun) the act of changing one thing or position for another. Synonyms: switching, shift. Examples: "His switch on abortion cost him the election."

(verb) change over, change around, as to a new order or sequence. Synonyms: switch over, exchange.

(verb) exchange or give (something) in exchange for. Synonyms: trade, swap, swop.

(verb) lay aside, abandon, or leave for another. Synonyms: shift, change. Examples: "Switch to a different brand of beer." "She switched psychiatrists." "The car changed lanes."

(verb) make a shift in or exchange of. Synonyms: change over, shift. Examples: "First joe led; then we switched."

(verb) cause to go on or to be engaged or set in operation. Synonyms: throw, flip. Examples: "Switch on the light." "Throw the lever."

(verb) flog with or as if with a flexible rod.

(verb) reverse (a direction, attitude, or course of action). Synonyms: interchange, tack, alternate, flip, flip-flop.