1. To suddenly appear or arrive: This is the most common meaning. It often implies a sudden and unexpected arrival, like a bird swooping down.
* "The police swooped in and arrested the suspect."
* "I was just about to leave when my friends swooped in and dragged me to the party."
2. To steal or take something quickly: This meaning usually refers to taking something valuable or desirable, often without permission.
* "He swooped the cash from the counter and ran."
* "She swooped a handful of cookies from the jar before anyone noticed."
3. To move quickly and confidently: This meaning suggests a smooth and effortless movement, like a bird gliding through the air.
* "The athlete swooped through the finish line, leaving the competition behind."
* "She swooped onto the dance floor, captivating everyone with her moves."
4. To flirt with someone: This meaning is less common but still used. It implies a bold and confident approach to attracting someone.
* "He was swooping on every girl in the room."
* "She swooped him off his feet with her charm."
5. To make a sudden and unexpected attack: This meaning is used in a more literal sense, often referring to a military or police operation.
* "The enemy forces swooped down on the city."
* "The SWAT team swooped in to take down the hostage taker."
The specific meaning of "swoop" will depend on the context in which it's used.