swimmer

UK: ˈswɪmə | US: ˈswɪmər

Definition

  1. n. a person or animal that swims

  2. n. (sports) a competitor in swimming events

Structure
swim <move through water>er <agent noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "swimmer" combines the verb "swim," derived from Old English swimman (to move through water), with the agentive suffix "-er," which denotes a person or thing performing an action. This structure follows a common English pattern (e.g., "runner," "dancer") to describe someone who engages in the activity. The root "swim" has Germanic origins, linked to Dutch zwemmen and German schwimmen.

Examples

  1. She is a talented swimmer who won three gold medals.

  2. The dolphin is the fastest swimmer in the ocean.

  3. As a competitive swimmer, he trains six hours daily.

  4. The rescue team included an expert swimmer.

  5. Polar bears are strong swimmers despite their size.