swan

Everyday

1. A swan is a large water bird, usually white, with a long curved neck. tree →
2. (informal, UK) To swan around or off is to go somewhere in a relaxed, carefree way, often while others are working. tree →

In the lessons

In nature lessons swans are birds that live on rivers and lakes; young swans are cygnets, a male is a cob and a female a pen. In stories, like «The Ugly Duckling», the swan stands for beauty and grace. In British informal speech «swanning off» shows annoyance at someone who enjoys themselves.

Examples

• Two white swans glided across the lake. tree →
• A baby swan is called a cygnet. tree →
• Black swans live in Australia. tree →
• Don't feed swans bread; give them peas or seeds. tree →
• The ugly duckling grew up to be a beautiful swan. tree →
• Swans can be fierce if you go near their nest. tree →
• He swanned off to the beach while we cleaned up. tree →
• She swans around as if she owns the place. tree →

Note

Plural: swans. Past of the verb: swanned. Safety: swans protect their young and can hurt people who come too close. The verb is informal and British.