Swim: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for moving through water using arms and legs. Suitable for recreational or competitive activities.

• I love to swim in the ocean during the summer
• He's been practicing to swim faster for the upcoming competition

Entering water headfirst, often from a height. Can also mean quickly sinking into water. Used in competitive sports or recreationally.

• The children like to dive off the dock into the lake
• She made a perfect dive and impressed the judges

Remaining on the surface of the water without sinking. Often used for relaxation.

• After swimming, I like to float on my back and look at the sky
• The lifeguard taught us how to float to stay safe if we get tired

Moving through water using hands or a paddle, usually in shallow water or in a small boat. Has a less formal and more leisurely connotation than 'swim'.

• The kids were paddling in the shallow end of the pool
• We had a great time paddling the canoe down the river

General term for moving through water using the limbs, often for exercise, competition, or recreation.

• I like to swim in the ocean during summer.
• She swims laps at the local pool every morning.

Refers to water-based sports and activities, often used in official or formal contexts.

• The school's aquatics program includes swimming, diving, and water polo.
• He excels in various aquatics events, including freestyle and backstroke.

Typically means washing oneself in a tub or shower, but can also refer to leisurely swimming in a more relaxed manner.

• I enjoy bathing in the hot springs to relax.
• The family spent the afternoon bathing in the lake.

Informal term for a short or quick swim, often used when the goal is to cool off rather than to swim extensively.

• After the hike, we took a quick dip in the river to cool off.
• The water was cold, but I managed a brief dip.