Swan

/swɒn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A large waterbird with a long neck, short legs, webbed feet, and a broad bill, typically noted for its grace and beauty.

The swan glided gracefully across the lake.

A person or thing that resembles a swan in beauty or grace.

She was a swan among her peers at the dance.

verb

To move about or travel casually or without purpose, especially in a leisurely way; often used in the phrase 'to swan around.'

He spent the summer swanning around the country without any particular destination.

Old English 'swan', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'zwaan' and German 'Schwan'.

swan song

A final performance or work before retirement or death.

like a swan

Graceful and poised, often used to describe someone who appears calm while working hard.

cygnus

The Latin genus name for swans.

swanlike

Resembling or characteristic of a swan.

To swan about

She loves to swan about town in her new dress.

Swaning

He's been swaning around like he owns the place.