swoop

/ˈswuːp/

noun

  1. 1

    An instance, or the act of suddenly plunging downward.

    The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim. – Sun Tzu
  2. 2

    A sudden act of seizing.

  3. 3

    A quick passage from one note to the next.

verb

  1. 1

    To fly or glide downwards suddenly; to plunge (in the air) or nosedive.

    The lone eagle swooped down into the lake, snatching its prey, a small fish.
  2. 2

    To move swiftly, as if with a sweeping movement, especially to attack something.

    The dog had enthusiastically swooped down on the bone.
  3. 3

    To fall on at once and seize; to catch while on the wing.

    A hawk swoops a chicken.
  4. 4

    To seize; to catch up; to take with a sweep.

  5. 5

    To pass with pomp; to sweep.

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