# swig

/ˈswɪɡ/ (US) · /swˈɪɡ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/swig
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a big, quick drink from a bottle or cup. You take a swig when you are thirsty and want a lot at once.

For teachers: a single large mouthful of drink taken quickly. Informal in tone, typically used with 'take' or 'have'.

## Examples

- He takes a quick swig of water.
- After the long run, she takes a cold swig from her bottle at the sideline.
- Between verses, the singer pauses for a slow swig of tea, letting the warmth settle before the final chorus begins.

## Synonyms

gulp

## Antonyms

sip

## Usage notes

- Commonly pairs with 'take' or 'have' ('take a swig'); often followed by 'of' or 'from'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.