Swallow Meaning

UK /ˈswɒl.oʊ/
US /ˈswɑː.loʊ/
Word Definition
swallow meaning

Swallow Definition & Usage

verb

To cause or allow something (such as food, liquid, or saliva) to pass down the throat into the stomach.

Examples

  • "She quickly swallowed the last bite of her sandwich."
  • "I accidentally swallowed a bit of water too fast and coughed."
  • "He felt the pill move down his throat as he swallowed."
  • "The child struggled to swallow the medicine, but eventually managed."
  • "After taking the medicine, she swallowed a glass of water."
verb

To accept, believe, or endure something, often without question or resistance.

Examples

  • "He swallowed the lie without even realizing it."
  • "It was hard to swallow the criticism, but he knew it was true."
  • "She could not swallow the idea of moving to another city."
  • "The students swallowed the new rule reluctantly but complied."
  • "It’s hard to swallow the idea that they may not be coming back."
noun

A small migratory bird known for its slender body and long, pointed wings, often associated with the genus Hirundo.

Examples

  • "A flock of swallows flew overhead as we sat by the lake."
  • "Swallows are known for their graceful flight patterns."
  • "In many cultures, the return of the swallow signals the arrival of spring."
  • "The barn swallow is one of the most common types of swallow in the United States."
  • "We saw a swallow's nest under the eaves of the house."

Cultural Context

Swallows have cultural significance in many parts of the world, symbolizing hope, freedom, and the arrival of spring. They are often linked to migrations and transitions, which make them a powerful metaphor in literature and art.

The Swallow's Journey

Story

The Swallow's Journey

On a crisp spring morning, Emma sat in the park, watching the swallows as they glided effortlessly through the sky. She had always admired their effortless grace, their ability to travel vast distances without hesitation. As a child, she used to chase them with her friends, pretending to be one of them, free from the worries of the world. But now, as an adult, she found herself unable to swallow her fear of change. She had recently been offered a job in another city, and although it was a fantastic opportunity, the thought of leaving her hometown, her friends, and her family felt unbearable. Her grandmother, who had always been the voice of wisdom in her life, had once told her, 'Sometimes, you have to swallow your fears and take the leap.' Emma had repeated those words to herself a thousand times, but today they felt more like a bitter pill than a comfort. As she sat there, watching the swallows return to the trees, she realized that just as the birds embraced the change of seasons, she too would have to swallow her fear and embrace the next chapter of her life. With a deep breath, she stood up and walked to the nearest cafe. The first step was always the hardest, but as she swallowed her nerves and made the call, Emma knew that this was the beginning of something new and exciting.

The Swallow's Journey