swish
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /swɪʃ/
KK: /swɪʃ/
adjective
Definition
Stylish and elegant in appearance or manner; often used to describe something that is fashionable or luxurious.
Example
She wore a swish dress to the party that caught everyone's attention.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: swisher
Superlative: swishest
Conversation
Did you see that new cafe downtown?
Yeah, it looks so swish and inviting!
I love the decor; it really gives off a swish vibe.
Definitely, I can't wait to check it out this weekend.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stylish
chic
elegant
Antonyms
drab
unfashionable
plain
intransitive verb
Definition
To move quickly through the air, making a soft sound like a hiss or whistle, often associated with something flexible like a whip or fabric.
Example
The flag swished in the wind as it flew high above the crowd.
Tense Forms
Past: swished
Past Participle: swished
Conversation
Did you hear that swish when she moved her dress?
Yeah, it sounded so elegant and smooth!
I love how it swishes when she walks on the dance floor.
noun
Definition
A quick, smooth movement that makes a soft sound, often like a rustling or whistling noise.
Example
The swish of the basketball through the net was music to his ears.
Conversation
Did you hear that swish when I threw the ball?
Yeah, it sounded really cool!
I love the sound it makes; it feels so satisfying.
transitive verb
Definition
To make a soft, swishing sound by moving something quickly through the air or to hit something in a way that produces this sound.
Example
She swished the broom across the floor to clean up the dust.
Tense Forms
Past: swished
Past Participle: swished
Conversation
Did you hear that swish sound when I threw the paper into the bin?
Yeah, it was really satisfying to hear!
I love that sound; it makes me feel like I actually scored a point.
Root Explanation
The word 'swish' originates from the early 19th century, likely imitative of the sound made by something moving swiftly through the air. It does not have clear roots in Latin, Greek, or Old French, but is considered an onomatopoeic term, meaning it imitates the sound associated with the action it describes.
Memory Tip
Imagine the sound of something moving quickly through the air, like a whip or a fast-moving object — that's what 'swish' captures.
Visually Confused Words
sawish
wish
sish
swinish
swedish
snowish
slowish
showish