plural also swan: any of various large heavy-bodied long-necked mostly pure white aquatic birds (family Anatidae, especially genus Cygnus) that have webbed feet and are related to but larger than the geese
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Noun
In a statement, Mayor Buddy Dyer said the decision was made for the well-being of the swans.—Ryan Gillespie, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 May 2026 Food and drink Dining options are extensive, from breakfast at Swan Court—set among waterfalls with resident swans—and caffeinated beverages at Honolulu Coffee to sushi at Japengo and fine dining at Son’z Steakhouse.—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026
Verb
Glamorous as ever at 92, Joan Collins swans onto the Cannes red carpet in ruffles and diamonds for the Electric Kiss premiere.—Alex Apatoff, PEOPLE, 12 May 2026 They're led by a glamorous male mad scientist, Dr. Frank-N-Furter, who swans about in a glittering corset and heels.—Neda Ulaby, NPR, 27 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for swan
Word History
Etymology
Noun
Middle English, from Old English; akin to Middle High German swan and perhaps to Latin sonus sound — more at sound entry 1
Verb (2)
perhaps euphemism for swear
First Known Use
Noun
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1