swan
UK: swɒn | US: swɑːn
n. A large waterbird with a long neck, webbed feet, and typically white plumage, known for its graceful movement on water.
n. (Poetic/literary) A symbol of purity, beauty, or melancholy.
vi. (Informal) To move or behave in a serene, effortless manner ("swan around").
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The word "swan" traces back to Old English swan, derived from Proto-Germanic swanaz, likely imitative of the bird’s sound or related to the Indo-European root swen- ("to sound, sing"). This reflects the ancient association of swans with musical or mournful calls (e.g., the "swan song" myth). Unlike compound words, "swan" retains its indivisible Germanic structure, evolving phonetically but never splitting into smaller morphemes.
The swan glided across the lake, its reflection shimmering in the water.
In mythology, a swan’s song is said to be hauntingly beautiful.
She spent the afternoon swanning about the garden in her summer dress.
The ballet dancer moved with the grace of a swan.
A pair of swans nested near the riverbank, guarding their cygnets.