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Swift"er (?), n. [Cf. Swivel.] (Naut.) (a) A rope used to retain the
bars of the capstan in their sockets while men are turning it. (b) A
rope used to encircle a boat longitudinally, to strengthen and defend
her sides. (c) The forward shroud of a lower mast.
Swift"er, v. t. (Naut.) To tighten, as slack standing rigging, by
bringing the opposite shrouds nearer.
Swift"foot` (?), a. Nimble; fleet. Mir. for Mag.
Swift"foot`, n. (Zoöl.) The courser.
Swift"let (?), n. (Zoöl.) Any one of numerous species of small East
Indian and Asiatic swifts of the genus Collocalia. Some of the species
are noted for furnishing the edible bird's nest. See Illust. under
Edible.
Swift"ly, adv. In a swift manner; with quick motion or velocity;
fleetly. Wyclif.
Swift"ness, n. The quality or state of being swift; speed; quickness;
celerity; velocity; rapidity; as, the swiftness of a bird; the
swiftness of a stream; swiftness of descent in a falling body;
swiftness of thought, etc.
Swig (?), v. t. [Cf. D. zwelgen to swallow, E. swallow, v.t.] 1. To
drink in long draughts; to gulp; as, to swig cider. [Colloq.]