Swamp Meaning and Definition
Swamp
Pronunciation
/swæmp/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A wetland ecosystem characterized by standing water, saturated soils, and a diverse array of plant and animal species adapted to these conditions.
Examples
- The alligator habitat was a dense swamp, hidden from prying eyes.
- The researcher spent weeks exploring the swamp, documenting its unique flora and fauna.
Synonyms
- Mire
- Fen
Antonyms
- Desert
- Dryland
Etymology
The word “swamp” comes from the Old Norse word “swamp”, meaning “water” or “wetland”. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century.
Usage Notes
When referring to a swamp, it is often important to emphasize its unique characteristics, such as its wetland ecosystem and diverse species.
Cultural References
Swamps have appeared in popular culture, such as in films like “Swamp Thing” and “The Princess and the Frog”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To get stuck in the swamp
- To navigate through the swamp
Related Words or Phrases
- Marsh
- Wetland
- Bog
Collocations
- Swamp creature
- Swamp land
- Swamp boat
Frequency of Use
The word “swamp” is relatively common in everyday language, especially in environmental and geographical contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Swam
- Swaim