The word "swift" is spelled with five letters, representing four sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /swɪft/. The initial /s/ is an unvoiced alveolar fricative, pronounced by forcing air through a narrow passage between the tongue and the alveolar ridge. The following sound is /w/, a voiced labiovelar glide where the lips round and form a sort of "oo" shape. Then comes the short vowel /ɪ/, an unrounded, nearly closed front vowel. Finally, the word ends with the unvoiced alveolar fricative /f/.
Swift is an adjective that can be defined as moving or capable of moving quickly and easily, with a high speed or velocity. When something is described as swift, it means it possesses the quality of rapidity in movement. It suggests a nimbleness or agility, implying a state of being able to move with great speed, efficiency, and ease. It often relates to actions or motions that are executed with haste and minimal effort.
In a literal sense, swift may refer to any physical object, creature, or force that exhibits a remarkable swiftness. For instance, a swift animal such as a cheetah or a falcon is known for its remarkable ability to move at an incredibly rapid pace. Similarly, a swift vehicle like a racing car or a high-speed train is designed to transport people or goods swiftly, covering long distances in a relatively short amount of time.
The term swift can also be used metaphorically to describe the speed or promptness with which someone carries out a particular task or action. It highlights the ability to accomplish something swiftly, efficiently, and without delay, exhibiting a high level of effectiveness and precision.
In summary, swift refers to the quality of moving quickly, effortlessly, and with agility. It can describe physical objects, living beings, or actions that embody and exhibit rapidity, efficiency, and promptness.
• Moving a great distance in a short time; quick; nimble; speedy; ready.
• A bird of the swallow tribe, so called from the rapidity of its flight.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "swift" comes from the Old English word "swift", which means "quick, prompt, or ready". It is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word "swiftaz", which signifies "moving quickly or swiftly". This Old English root is also related to other Germanic languages, such as Old Norse "svifinn" and Old High German "swift", both meaning "quick" or "nimble". The term has remained relatively consistent in meaning throughout its history.