1. A flexible stick or twig used for whipping someone: Ron's mother whipped her dog once with a switch when it refused to stop barking.
2. A process in which two sections of railroad track are changed: The rail switch is used to transfer rolling stock from one track to another one.
3. A device that is used to turn on or to turn off electrical appliances: Bruce and his family made the lights come on or go off with the use of switches that are located in each room and entrance way of their apartment.

1. To put aside, to abandon, or to change or exchange: Mildred decided to switch her plans to go shopping today and so she will go tomorrow instead.
2. To move quickly: When an animal switches its tail, it moves fast and suddenly, back and forth, from side to side.
3. To cause an electric current or an appliance to start or stop operating: Roy switched the lights on earlier in the evening, then he switched them off when he was ready to go to bed.