English » English  |
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Swan |
Any one of numerous species of large aquatic birds belonging to Cygnus, Olor, and allied genera of the subfamily Cygninae. They have a large and strong beak and a long neck, and are noted for their graceful movements when swimming. Most of the northern species are white. In literature the swan was fabled to sing a melodious song, especially at the time of its death. |
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Swan |
Fig.: An appellation for a sweet singer, or a poet noted for grace and melody; as Shakespeare is called the swan of Avon. |
n. |
Swan |
The constellation Cygnus. |
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English » English Indirect results |
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Swan-hopping |
A corruption of Swan-upping. |
n. |
Swan's-down |
Alt. of Swans-down |
n. |
Swan-upping |
A yearly expedition on the Thames to take up young swans and mark them, as by Companies of Dyers and Vintners; -- called also swan-hopping. |
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