swallowtail Definition
- 1a forked tail resembling a swallow's, especially as shown by some aircraft or by a coat, dress, or other garment
- 2a large butterfly with pointed hindwings that resemble the tail of a swallow, typically with colourful patterns
Using swallowtail: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "swallowtail" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The swallowtail on the back of his coat was an elegant touch.
Example
The swallowtail butterfly is a common sight in gardens during the summer months.
Example
The swallowtail aircraft design was popular in the early 20th century.
swallowtail Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with swallowtail
swallowtail coat
a man's dress coat of the 19th century, having a wide tapering tail divided into two sections and cut away at the front
Example
He wore a black swallowtail coat to the formal event.
a large butterfly with pointed hindwings that resemble the tail of a swallow, typically with colourful patterns
Example
The swallowtail butterfly is a common sight in gardens during the summer months.
an Irish traditional dance tune in 9/8 time, named after the butterfly's distinctive tail shape
Example
The fiddler played a lively swallowtail jig at the pub.
Summary: swallowtail in Brief
A 'swallowtail' [ˈswɒləʊteɪl] can refer to a forked tail resembling a swallow's, as seen on some aircraft or garments, or to a large butterfly with pointed hindwings. The swallowtail coat is a historical men's dress coat with a wide tapering tail. The swallowtail butterfly is a common sight in gardens during summer. 'Swallowtail' also refers to a lively Irish traditional dance tune in 9/8 time.
