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. Fig.: An appellation for a sweet singer, or a poet noted for grace and melody; as Shakespeare is called the swan of Avon. The constellation Cygnus.
Any of various species of large, long-necked waterfowl, of genus Cygnus (bird family: Anatidae), most of which have white plumage. One whose grace etc. suggests a swan. This bird used as a heraldic charge, sometimes with a crown around its neck (e. g. the arms of Buckinghamshire).
To travel or move about in an aimless, idle, or pretentiously casual way. To declare (chiefly in first-person present constructions).