swivel

Meanings

Noun

• A piece, such as a ring or hook, attached to another piece by a pin, in such a manner as to permit rotation about the pin as an axis.
• A small piece of ordnance, turning on a point or swivel; called also swivel gun.
• Strength of mind or character that enables one to overcome adversity; confidence; force of will.
• The act of swivelling.
• A rotating of the hips.

Verb

• To swing or turn, as on a pin or pivot.

Origin

• From Middle English swyvel, swivel, from a derivative of Old English swīfan ("to revolve"), + -el, an instrumental suffix, equivalent to swive + -el.