sweeping sideways; mowing down
Describes a wide horizontal cutting or striking motion, often with a sword or similar weapon. Can also be used figuratively for sweeping away opponents or obstacles.
He slashed sideways with his sword.
The fighter knocked down his opponent with a sweeping sideways blow.
Standard kanji spelling.
Simplified spelling using kana for the second character.
Compound of 横 (side, horizontal) and 薙ぎ (the continuative form of 薙ぐ, meaning to mow down or cut in a sweeping motion).