swallow

swallow

1. noun
   /ˈswɒl.oʊ/

   a. A small migratory bird with a slender body, long pointed wings, and a forked tail, known for its swift, graceful flight. Swallows are found almost worldwide and are famous for feeding on insects caught on the wing. e.g., "The sky was filled with swallows darting through the air."

   b. The act of causing or allowing something, especially food or drink, to pass down the throat. e.g., "After a long run, he took a big swallow of water."

2. verb
   /ˈswɒl.oʊ/

   a. To cause or allow something (especially food or drink) to pass from the mouth down through the throat and into the esophagus and stomach. e.g., "She swallowed the medicine with a glass of water."

   b. To refrain from expressing; suppress or hold back (an emotion, response, etc.). e.g., "He swallowed his anger and remained calm."

   c. To accept or believe something without question or protest. e.g., "She found his excuses hard to swallow."