swoop

Swoop is a term used to describe a rapid downward movement through the air, typically to seize prey or to reach a target quickly. As a verb, it involves a swift, sweeping descent or approach, and is commonly applied to birds of prey, aircraft, and other objects that dive or swoop to intercept something. In broader usage, to swoop can also mean to intervene suddenly or to arrive quickly to help, rescue, or take advantage of an opportunity.

As a noun, a swoop refers to the act or instance of swooping—a quick, decisive descent or attack. The word often conveys suddenness and precision, and is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, such as describing a predator’s strike or a rapid, coordinated move in sports, politics, or business.

In practical contexts, swooping is notable in wildlife biology, where predators like hawks or falcons swoop from altitude to catch prey. It is also widely used in aviation and defense to describe intercepts or attacks by aircraft. The imagery of speed and precision makes swoop a common descriptor in journalism and storytelling.

Swoop also serves as a proper noun in various domains. Swoop is the name of a Canadian ultra-low-cost airline launched in 2018, owned by WestJet and operating domestic and international routes. It is also the name of an Australian music group formed in the 1990s. Beyond these uses, swoop appears as a brand or product name in different industries, reflecting qualities of agility and rapid action.