swan-dive

[ swon-dahyv ]
/ ˈswɒnˌdaɪv /

verb (used without object), swan-dived, swan-div·ing.

to perform a swan dive.
to decrease suddenly and decisively; plummet: Stock prices swan-dived overnight.

Definition for swan-dive (2 of 2)

swan dive

noun Diving.

a forward dive in which the diver while in the air assumes a position with the arms outstretched at shoulder height and the legs straight and together, and enters the water with the arms stretched above the head.
Also called, especially British, swallow dive.

Origin of swan dive

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900

British Dictionary definitions for swan-dive

swan dive

noun

US and Canadian a type of dive in which the diver arches back while in the air, keeping his legs straight and together and his arms outstretched, finally entering the water headfirst Also called (in Britain and certain other countries): swallow dive