Definition

Noun: A specific coordinated movement pattern of the arms and legs used to propel a swimmer's body through the water. Each stroke has a distinct technique, rhythm, and body position.

Usage

The term "swimming stroke" refers to the formal technique used for propulsion in swimming. It is used to discuss, compare, or instruct on different methods of swimming. - The first swimming stroke most children learn is the front crawl. - Butterfly is considered the most physically demanding swimming stroke. - Her swimming stroke is very efficient, allowing her to glide through the water with less effort.

Advanced Usage

• "To have a good stroke": To execute a swimming stroke with proper technique and efficiency.
  • After months of coaching, he finally developed a very good stroke.
• In competitive contexts, "stroke" can be used as shorthand for "swimming stroke."
  • She will compete in the 200-meter individual medley, which tests all four major strokes.

Variants and Related Words

• Stroke (noun): Often used as a shortened, informal form of "swimming stroke" in context.
  • Which stroke are you practicing today?
• Freestyle: A category in competition where swimmers can use any swimming stroke they choose, though the front crawl is almost universally used.
• Individual Medley (IM): A race where a swimmer uses four different prescribed swimming strokes in a set order.

Synonyms

• Swimming technique: A broader term that encompasses stroke mechanics, breathing, and body position.
• Propulsion method: A more technical term focusing on the mechanics of moving through water.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To be out of stroke": To be swimming with poor or inefficient technique; rhythm is off.
  • I'm tired today, so my swimming is completely out of stroke.
• "To change stroke": To switch from one swimming stroke to another.
  • Halfway across the lake, she changed stroke from breaststroke to backstroke.

Noun

1. a method of moving the arms and legs to push against the water and propel the swimmer forward