Swyvel

Part of speech: noun, verb

Definitions

1. A rotating joint or coupling that lets an attached part turn freely around a fixed point ; to rotate or spin around a central axis so that the body or object faces another direction
2. A pivoting connector that allows an attached piece to turn independently of what it is fastened to ; to twist or revolve on a fixed pin or axis
3. A fitting, ring or joint that lets connected parts spin without tangling ; to pivot or wheel around a single central point

Etymology: This is an older spelling of "swivel," and it shows the word's likely root more clearly than the modern form does. Middle English writers spelled it "swyvel," and it probably comes from the Old English verb "swīfan," meaning to move in a course or revolve, which also gave us "swift" and the verb "swive." The "-el" ending is a diminutive or frequentative suffix, so "swivel" may originally have suggested something that turns or spins repeatedly. The "swive" connection is the surprising part. That verb, meaning "to have sex," is an old word from the same Old English source, which is why early spellings like "swyvel" can look like a rude word to modern eyes. The sense of motion in "swivel" is the one that survived in ordinary use, while the rest of the family moved in quite different directions.

Synonyms: swivel