Cygnet: meaning, definitions and examples

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cygnet

 

[ ˈsɪɡnɪt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

young bird

A cygnet is a young swan, typically grey or brown in color, that has not yet reached adulthood. Cygnets are known for their fluffy feathers and graceful movements on water.

Synonyms

baby swan, swan chick, young swan.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cygnet

This term is the formal, specific word used to refer to a young swan. It is often used in scientific or educational contexts.

  • The cygnet followed its mother closely.
  • The cygnet's feathers will turn white as it matures.
young swan

This phrase is also informal and can be used in general conversation to describe a swan that is not yet fully grown.

  • The young swan is learning to fly.
  • A young swan's plumage changes as it ages.
baby swan

This phrase is more informal and straightforward, commonly used in everyday conversation or when speaking to children.

  • Look at that cute baby swan!
  • The baby swan swam near the shore.
swan chick

This term is less common but can be used informally or in a more casual discussion to describe a young swan.

  • The swan chick was surprisingly brave.
  • A swan chick typically stays close to its parents.

Examples of usage

  • The cygnets followed their mother closely as they swam across the lake.
  • Visitors to the park were delighted to see the adorable cygnets playing by the pond.
Context #2 | Noun

term of endearment

In a figurative sense, cygnet can also be used as a term of endearment or affection towards someone, comparing them to the beauty and elegance of a swan.

Synonyms

beloved, darling, sweetheart.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cygnet

Use when referring to a young swan. This term is specific to zoology and literature when describing the offspring of swans.

  • The cygnet swam closely behind its mother.
  • The park is home to several cygnets in the spring.
darling

A term of endearment commonly used in romantic relationships or to express affection. It can also be used, sometimes sarcastically, in daily conversations.

  • My darling, you mean the world to me.
  • You're such a darling for helping me out.
sweetheart

Often used as a term of endearment in romantic relationships. It can also be used affectionately towards children or close friends.

  • Happy anniversary, my sweetheart!
  • Come here, sweetheart, and give grandma a hug.
beloved

Appropriate for describing someone or something that is dearly loved and cherished. Often used in formal or emotional contexts.

  • She wrote a letter to her beloved husband.
  • The novel was dedicated to her beloved grandmother.

Examples of usage

  • My dear cygnet, you are as graceful as a swan gliding on a calm lake.
  • Her parents always called her their little cygnet, symbolizing her beauty and purity.

Translations

Translations of the word "cygnet" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cisne jovem

🇮🇳 हंस का बच्चा

🇩🇪 Schwanenküken

🇮🇩 anak angsa

🇺🇦 лебедятко

🇵🇱 młody łabędź

🇯🇵 白鳥のひな

🇫🇷 cygneau

🇪🇸 cisne joven

🇹🇷 genç kuğu

🇰🇷 백조 새끼

🇸🇦 فرخ البجعة

🇨🇿 mladý labuť

🇸🇰 mladý labuť

🇨🇳 小天鹅

🇸🇮 mladi labod

🇮🇸 ungur svanur

🇰🇿 жас аққу

🇬🇪 ახალგაზრდა გედი

🇦🇿 gənc qu quşu

🇲🇽 cisne joven

Etymology

The word 'cygnet' originated from Middle English and is derived from the Old French word 'cignet' or 'cisne,' which ultimately comes from the Latin word 'cygnus.' The Latin term is believed to have been borrowed from the Greek word 'kyknos,' which referred to the swan. Swans have long been associated with beauty, grace, and elegance in various cultures, making the term 'cygnet' a fitting symbol of youth and purity.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,694, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.