Swoosh Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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swoosh

[swuหสƒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in sports

To move swiftly and smoothly in a particular direction, especially in a sporting activity such as basketball or running.

Synonyms

dart, whizz, zoom.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
swoosh

Often used to describe the sound made by something moving quickly through the air, especially in a smooth, continuous manner. It's also associated with smooth, elegant motions.

  • The basketball made a satisfying swoosh as it went through the net.
  • She heard the swoosh of the car as it sped past.
whizz

Used to describe the sound of something moving very rapidly, often creating a high-pitched, buzzing sound. It can be associated with excitement or intense speed.

  • The rocket whizzed past the crowd, leaving a trail of smoke.
  • She felt the wind whizzing by as she skated downhill.
zoom

Frequently used to refer to quick movements or speeds, especially when talking about vehicles or technology. It can also describe the sound associated with rapid movement.

  • The race cars zoomed around the track at incredible speeds.
  • He could zoom in on the details using his camera's powerful lens.
dart

Typically used to describe a rapid, sudden movement, often in a specific direction. Can imply a quick, abrupt, and precise motion.

  • The cat darted across the room to catch the laser pointer.
  • He darted out of the way just in time to avoid the oncoming bicycle.

Examples of usage

  • He swooshed past the defender and scored a goal.
  • The runner swooshed through the finish line, winning the race.
Context #2 | Noun

in fashion

A logo design used by the sports brand Nike, characterised by a curved check mark.

Synonyms

emblem, logo, symbol.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
swoosh

Often associated with Nike, this term refers to a specific type of curved, flowing design used as a brand mark. It's best used when talking about this iconic, wave-like shape.

  • The Nike swoosh is one of the most recognizable marks in the world.
  • The new sneakers have a reflective swoosh on the side.
logo

Refers to a graphic mark, emblem, or symbol used to aid and promote public identification and recognition. Commonly used in business contexts for brands and companies.

  • The company's new logo was unveiled at the event.
  • They hired a designer to create a modern logo for their start-up.
emblem

Generally used to describe a symbolic representation, often with a historical or official significance. It can refer to logos, badges, or crests representing an organization, nation, or group.

  • The national emblem features a majestic eagle.
  • The car's emblem was damaged in the accident.
symbol

A general term for anything that represents or stands for something else, especially a material object representing something abstract. Can be used in a wide variety of contexts.

  • The dove is a symbol of peace.
  • Their handshake was a symbol of their agreement.

Examples of usage

  • The swoosh on his sneakers indicated they were a high-end Nike product.
  • The swoosh has become an iconic symbol of the brand.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The Nike 'Swoosh' logo, created in 1971, was inspired by the sound of movement and represents motion and speed in sports.
  • The term has appeared in various songs and movies, often describing fast-paced action or transitions.
  • In cartoons, characters often make a 'swoosh' sound when zooming across the screen, emphasizing their speed and agility.

Science

  • In physics, swoosh-like sounds can be associated with movement through air or water, often linked to the principles of aerodynamics.
  • When an object travels faster than the speed of sound, it can create a sonic 'swoosh' or boom, known as a sonic boom.
  • The study of how sound travels can often relate to the effects of 'swooshing' noises in nature, such as wind through trees.

Literature

  • Writers often use the word 'swoosh' in descriptive passages to convey speed or rapid motion, creating dynamic imagery.
  • Childrenโ€™s books frequently incorporate the word to describe fun, energetic actions, making the reading experience more lively.
  • Poetry sometimes employs 'swoosh' to evoke a sense of movement, helping establish rhythm and flow in verses.

Psychology

  • Sounds like 'swoosh' can evoke feelings of excitement or quick movement, influencing one's mood positively during sports events.
  • Research suggests that engaging with sports imagery and sounds helps improve focus and motivation in individuals.
  • The auditory representation of movement (like swooshing) can trigger visual and physical responses in athletes, enhancing performance.

Origin of 'swoosh'

Main points about word origin

  • The term first appeared in English in the 1960s, modeled after the sound made by something moving swiftly through the air.
  • Its usage became popularized in sports, particularly basketball, as players and fans used the term to describe the sound of a perfect shot.
  • Swoosh is also an onomatopoeic word, designed to mimic the sound itself, enhancing the image of speed and movement.

The word 'swoosh' originated in the 1970s as a term to describe the sound of something moving quickly through the air. It gained popularity through its association with the sports brand Nike and their iconic logo design. The swoosh has since become a symbol of athleticism and style.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,972, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.