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Swans Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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swans

[swษ’n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

birds, animals

Swans are large waterfowl belonging to the family Anatidae, known for their graceful appearance and elongated necks. They are known to be strong fliers and can be found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats. Swans are often associated with beauty and love due to their monogamous behavior.

Synonyms

bird, waterfowl.

Examples of usage

  • The swans floated gracefully on the lake.
  • We saw a pair of swans building a nest by the river.
  • In many cultures, swans symbolize love and fidelity.
  • Children love to feed the swans at the park.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, swans symbolize love and fidelity due to their strong pair bonds and mating for life.
  • The ballet 'Swan Lake' by Tchaikovsky is one of the most famous performances featuring swans, showcasing their beauty and elegance.

Natural Behavior

  • Swans are known for their impressive courtship rituals, which include synchronized swimming and mutual preening.
  • While typically peaceful, swans can be quite territorial, particularly during nesting season, acting protectively of their young.

Habitat

  • Swans are commonly found in freshwater lakes, rivers, and marshes across much of Europe, Asia, and North America.
  • Migratory swan species travel thousands of miles annually, showcasing their adaptability to various environments.

Wildlife Conservation

  • Some swan species, like the Whooper swan and the trumpeter swan, have faced threats from habitat loss and pollution.
  • Conservation efforts are in place to protect swan populations and their natural habitats around the world.

Origin of 'swans'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'swan' comes from the Old English word 'swan,' which is related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
  • In ancient English, swans were often associated with love and beauty, reflecting their graceful appearance.

The word 'swan' originates from Old English 'swan,' which can be traced back to Proto-Germanic *swฤ“nฤ… and further to Proto-Indo-European *sweแน“n, meaning 'to swim.' This etymology effectively captures the essence of swans as aquatic birds. Throughout history, swans have been significant in various cultures and mythologies, often symbolizing pure love and beauty. In literature and folklore, swans are depicted as creatures of elegance, frequently associated with water bodies such as lakes and rivers. They are also known for their unique courtship rituals and strong pair bonds, which contribute to their longstanding reputation as symbols of fidelity. Over time, the term 'swan' has remained relatively unchanged, reflecting the bird's enduring presence in human culture and the natural world.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,187, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.