Definition

1. Noun:

   • A tool for killing insects: An implement consisting of a flat, often perforated or mesh surface attached to a long handle, designed to kill flying insects by striking them.

2. Verb:

   • To move in water with splashing and fluttering motions: To splash, beat, or flutter about in water or as if in water, often in an ungraceful or vigorous manner.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • I grabbed the swatter to kill the mosquito buzzing near the lamp.
  • The plastic swatter is more effective than the old wire-mesh one.

• Verb:

  • The children swattered about in the shallow end of the pool, laughing loudly.
  • The injured bird swattered in the puddle, unable to fly.

Advanced Usage

• "fly swatter": This is the most common compound term for the noun form, specifying its use against flies.
  • The fly swatter is a common household item in the summer.

Variants and Related Words

• Swat (verb): To hit something, especially an insect, with a quick, sharp blow. This is the action performed with a swatter.
  • He tried to swat the fly with his hand.

Synonyms

• Noun: Flyswatter, bug swatter.
• Verb: Splash, flounder, paddle, thrash.

Related Phrasal Verbs/Verb Phrases

• Swat at: To make a hitting motion toward something (like an insect).
  • She swatted at the bee near her picnic blanket.
  • Note: This uses the base verb "swat," not "swatter."

Related Idioms

Noun

1. an implement with a flat part (of mesh or plastic) and a long handle; used to kill insects

Verb

1. splash and flutter about in or as if in water
   • She swattered about in the pool