Swim

Definition

Swim refers to the act of moving through water by using the limbs, fins, or other body parts. It can also describe a state of being immersed in liquid or being overwhelmed by sensory experiences.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /swɪm/
• Respelling: SWIM

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /swɪm/
• Respelling: SWIM

Etymology

The word "swim" originates from the Old English "swimman," meaning "to move in water," derived from Proto-Germanic "swemanan" and Proto-Indo-European "swem-," meaning "to be in motion." It has been used in English since the early medieval period.

Derivatives

• Swimmer (noun)
• Swimming (noun/adjective)
• Swam (verb, past tense)
• Swum (verb, past participle)
• Overswim (verb)

Synonyms

• Float
• Glide
• Paddle

Antonyms

• Sink
• Submerge
• Drown

Usage

The verb "swim" is used to describe the act of propelling oneself through water, such as "She learned to swim at an early age." As a noun, it can refer to an instance or activity of swimming, such as "They went for a swim in the lake." It is also used metaphorically to describe being immersed in or overwhelmed by something, such as "His thoughts were in a swim of emotions."

Related Terms

• Dive: To plunge into water headfirst.
• Float: To remain on the surface of the water.
• Stroke: A specific movement or technique used in swimming.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To move through water by means of bodily motion: Refers to using limbs or fins to propel oneself in water.
  • Example: "He can swim across the pool in under a minute."
• To be immersed in or surrounded by liquid: Describes the state of being covered or floating in liquid.
  • Example: "The vegetables swim in a rich, creamy sauce."
• To feel dizzy or overwhelmed: Refers to a sensation of spinning or being inundated.
  • Example: "Her head began to swim after hearing the shocking news."

Noun

• An act or session of swimming: Refers to the activity of moving through water.
  • Example: "They went for a swim in the ocean."
• A specific area or spot in a body of water: Used to describe a location for swimming or fishing.
  • Example: "The angler found a productive swim near the riverbank."