swoop

Definition

To fly or glide downwards suddenly; to plunge (in the air) or nosedive.

Etymology

From Middle English swopen, from Old English swāpan (“to sweep”). Doublet of swaip. See also sweep, which was probably the basis for analogical restoration of /w/ in this word.

Example Sentences

• "The lone eagle swooped down into the lake, snatching its prey, a small fish."
• "The dog had enthusiastically swooped down on the bone."
• "There was a person called Nana who ruled the nursery. Sometimes she took no notice of the playthings lying about, and sometimes, for no reason whatever, she went swooping about like a great wind and hustled them away in cupboards."