swan neck etymology

Etymology:

  • The term "swan neck" is a combination of two words:

    • Swan: A large, long-necked waterfowl known for its graceful appearance.
    • Neck: The long, slender part of the body that connects the head to the trunk.

Meaning:

  • 1. A curved tube or vessel with a shape resembling a swan's neck:
    • Used in various scientific, medical, and industrial applications.
    • Examples: Swan neck flask, swan neck separator.
  • 2. (Anatomy)
    • The long, curved neck of a bird, especially a swan.
    • Figuratively: A gracefully curved or elongated shape.
    • Examples: A swan neck vase, a swan neck bridge.

Origin:

  • The use of the term "swan neck" to describe a curved tube or vessel can be traced back to the 17th century.
  • It likely originated from the observation that the shape of such vessels closely resembled the long, graceful neck of a swan.
  • The metaphorical use of "swan neck" to describe elongated or curved shapes emerged later, possibly inspired by the beauty and elegance associated with swans.

swan neck relate terms

  • neck

    Etymology The word neck originates from the Old English word hnocca which referred t

  • collar

    Etymology The word collar originates from the Old French word collere meaning neck

  • stiff necked

    Etymology Stiff adjective Old English stif rigid stiff unbending Neck noun Ol

  • swan

    Etymology The word swan comes from the Middle English word swane which is derived f