swift
UK: swɪft | US: swɪft
adj. moving or capable of moving at high speed
adj. happening quickly or promptly
n. a fast-flying bird of the swallow family
n. (historical) a swift current or stream
The word "swift" originates from Old English swift, meaning "moving quickly," derived from Proto-Germanic swiftaz. This root is tied to the verb swīfan ("to sweep, glide"), reflecting the idea of smooth, rapid motion. Over time, "swift" expanded from describing physical speed (e.g., birds, rivers) to abstract promptness (e.g., decisions). The bird name (16th century) was adopted due to its rapid flight.
The swift fox darted across the prairie.
She gave a swift response to the email.
Swifts migrate thousands of miles each year.
The river’s swift current made crossing dangerous.
His swift actions saved the project from failure.