Swain: meaning, definitions and examples

An old-fashioned term used to describe a young lover or a country lad in romantic contexts, often seen in poetic or literary works.

• The young swain serenaded his beloved under the moonlight.
• In many old ballads, the swain bravely ventures to win the heart of his lady.

Refers to someone involved in a romantic and usually sexual relationship. This term can be used positively or negatively depending on the context.

• They spent a beautiful weekend away, just the two lovers.
• She discovered that he had another lover, and it broke her heart.

Traditionally used to describe a man who is courting or seeking to marry a particular woman, implying a formal intent of marriage.

• Her father approved of the young suitor who came to ask for her hand.
• The princess had many suitors but chose to follow her heart.

Used to describe someone who has a high regard or affection for another person, often without that person's knowledge. It suggests quiet and respectful affection.

• She received a bouquet of flowers from an anonymous admirer.
• He blushed when he found out that he had a secret admirer in the office.

A term of endearment used to refer to a significant other in a loving, often long-term relationship. It conveys warmth and affection.

• He saved a piece of cake for his sweetheart.
• They have been sweethearts since high school.

Often used in old-fashioned or poetic contexts to describe a young lover or suitor, usually of rural background.

• The fair maiden was courted by a young swain from the neighboring village.
• In the ballad, the swain sang sweet songs to his beloved beneath the moonlit sky.

Traditionally refers to a person employed in a household to perform domestic duties. This term has historical and sometimes negative connotations related to social hierarchy.

• The servant polished the silverware before the guests arrived for dinner.
• In old novels, servants often played crucial roles in the household's daily operations.

A broad term that refers to a person who performs manual work, usually in construction or other physically demanding jobs. It may sometimes imply a lower social or economic status.

• The laborer worked diligently all day, carrying bricks and mixing cement on the construction site.
• As a laborer, he was used to long hours and tough physical conditions.

Refers to a person who is employed to work on a farm, usually in a casual or seasonal capacity. This term is neutral and straightforward.

• The farmhand woke up early to start his chores in the fields.
• During the harvest season, the farm employed several farmhands to help with the workload.