The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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swivel

verb

/ˈswɪvəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of swivel

To turn or pivot around a central point, typically in a horizontal or lateral direction.
"The office chair can swivel 360 degrees for easy movement."

Detailed meaning of swivel

When an object or part of it swivels, it rotates or moves smoothly and flexibly, often allowing for a change in direction or orientation. For example, an office chair with a swivel base enables the user to turn around easily. Swiveling is a common feature in various mechanical and ergonomic designs, providing mobility and flexibility for objects like camera mounts, desk chairs, or monitor stands. It allows for effortless adjustment or repositioning while maintaining stability, making it a practical and efficient mechanism in various everyday applications.

Example sentences containing swivel

1. The security camera can swivel to monitor different areas of the room.
2. The barstool can swivel to face the bar or the TV.
3. The baby's car seat can swivel to face either forward or backward.
4. The spotlight can swivel to highlight different areas of the stage.
5. The gun turret can swivel to aim at different targets.
6. The camera tripod can swivel to adjust the angle of the shot.

History and etymology of swivel

The verb 'swivel' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'swivele,' which meant 'to turn on a pivot.' Its precise origins are somewhat obscure, but 'swivel' aptly describes the action of turning or pivoting around a central point, often in a horizontal or lateral direction. The term conveys a sense of flexibility and ease of movement, as if something can rotate smoothly on its axis. 'Swivel' is a word frequently associated with devices like chairs or joints that allow for rotational movement, emphasizing the ability to change direction or orientation with ease. It embodies the concept of controlled and efficient rotation, whether it be for practical purposes or simply to facilitate a change in perspective.

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Further usage examples of swivel

1. The crane can swivel to lift and move heavy objects.
2. The TV mount can swivel to adjust the viewing angle.
3. The satellite dish can swivel to receive signals from different directions.
4. The airplane's wheels can swivel to help with steering during takeoff and landing.
5. I had to swivel my chair to see the screen better.
6. Owls can swivel their heads almost 180 degrees.
7. Can this TV mount swivel to the left?
8. The key wouldn't swivel in the lock.
9. She made a quick swivel to dodge the incoming ball.
10. The spotlight can swivel in all directions.
11. I heard a noise and immediately swiveled around.
12. Cameras on modern drones can swivel for panoramic shots.
13. The barstools swivel, making it easier to get on and off.
14. As the music started, he swiveled on his heels.
15. Can you help me swivel this monitor to face the audience?
16. The artist’s easel had a swivel feature for landscape painting.
17. The audience swiveled their attention to the stage.
18. My phone holder can swivel, allowing me to switch between portrait and landscape mode.
19. When I called her name, she swiveled in surprise.
20. The crane can swivel to lift cargo from different angles.
21. I swivel the mirror daily to catch the morning sun.
22. The dancer's swift swivel captivated the audience.
23. His eyes swiveled to the clock, noting the passing time.
24. The desktop globe would swivel with just a gentle push.