slepe

Slepe is a Norwegian verb meaning to tow or haul, describing the action of moving a vehicle or heavy object by pulling it with a line, chain, or tow vehicle. In maritime and road transport, slepe is used when a vessel or vehicle cannot move under its own power and must be moved by another craft or vehicle. The term is common in contexts like towing a car after a breakdown or guiding a ship into harbor.

Etymology and cognates: Slepe is part of a family of North Germanic words including Danish slæbe and Swedish släpa, all from a common Proto-Germanic root meaning to drag or pull. In modern usage, the exact form varies by language but retains the core meaning of drawing an object over a distance.

Usage notes: Slepe is a specialized verb; it is not a general everyday action in casual speech, unless discussing towing or dragging tasks. In English, slepe is generally considered a misspelling of "sleep" rather than a term with independent meaning.

Other uses: Some languages or dialects may further adapt the term for related actions (for example hauling heavy loads or guiding a vehicle). Slepe is rarely found as a standalone noun in contemporary Norwegian.

See also: sleep, tow, haul.