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swoop definition

swoop (swo̵̅o̅p)

transitive verb

to snatch or seize suddenly, with a sweeping movement: often with up, off, or away

Etymology: ME swopen < OE swapan, to sweep along, rush, akin to Ger schweifen, ON sveipa: see swift

intransitive verb

to descend suddenly and swiftly, as a bird in hunting; pounce or sweep (down or upon)

noun

the act of swooping or pouncing; sudden, violent descent

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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