WordGarden.ioswoop
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /swˈuːp/
US
- /ˈswup/
Meanings
Verb
to move rapidly downward through the air, often in a curve or to attack something
to arrive or act suddenly and decisively, especially to seize an opportunity or take something quickly
Noun
a rapid downward movement through the air or attacking pass
Beyond the definition
Imagine a hawk circling high above, then suddenly swooping down to catch its prey: that's the heart of this word. To swoop is to move quickly downward or forward in a smooth, strong motion. It often describes birds diving, planes coming down fast, or people rushing in suddenly. Police may swoop in on a suspect, and your stomach may swoop when you suddenly remember something important. The word usually suggests speed, control, and a dramatic arrival or descent.
The word "swoop" suggests speed, force, and often surprise. It describes a fast movement downward or inward, usually in a smooth, curved, or sweeping motion. Think of an eagle swooping from the sky to snatch a fish: it is not simply falling, but moving with purpose and control.
Originally, "swoop" was closely linked to birds of prey diving for food. Over time, its meaning broadened to include other sudden, sweeping movements. A plane might swoop down during a sharp maneuver, or rescuers might swoop in to help someone in danger. The word is also used for a sudden physical feeling, especially in the phrase "your stomach swoops," such as on a roller coaster or in a moment of shock.
Figuratively, "swoop" can mean arriving quickly and taking action at once. A company might swoop in to buy a smaller competitor before anyone else can act. One of the most common uses of the word appears in the idiom "in one fell swoop," which means doing something all at once, often with a large effect.
The key idea behind "swoop" is the mix of speed, controlled motion, and suddenness. It is more than just a fall or a rush; it is a quick, striking movement that often feels dramatic.
Examples
- 1
Bird movement
A seagull swooped down and grabbed a chip from my hand.
- 2
Aircraft movement
The helicopter swooped low over the field before landing.
- 3
Sudden action
She swooped in and bought the last ticket before I could get it.
- Phraseswoop in
arrive suddenly and act quickly
- 4
Rescue help
My sister swooped in to help when dinner started to go wrong.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Media attention
Reporters swooped on the actor as soon as he left the courthouse.
- Patternswoop on + person
move toward them quickly and suddenly, often to question or attack them
- 6
Single action
The company cut prices and launched a big ad campaign in one swoop.
- Phrasein one swoop
all at once in a single action
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- swoopnounverb
Forms
- swoopedpast tenseverbnoun
- swooping-ing formverbnoun
- swoopspluralnounverb