C1noun 2K

Swarm

UK //swɔːm// US //swɔrm// Pronunciation

Definition

A large group of insects or animals moving together, usually in a chaotic way.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A large group of insects or animals moving together.

Examples

• The beekeeper watched the swarm as it flew away from the hive.
• A swarm of butterflies danced over the wildflower meadow.
• During the summer, the park was full of a swarm of picnic-goers.
• Scientists studied the swarm patterns of locusts in their natural habitat.
• The swarm of people gathered around the street performer.

Usage notes

Use 'swarm' when referring to a large group, especially insects like bees. It's formal but commonly used in everyday language about animals.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Imagine a massive bee SWARM buzzing loudly - it's hard to ignore!

Collocations

• bees swarm
• swarm of insects
• swarm behavior
• swarm intelligence

Synonyms

• horde
• group
• mob
• throng
• cloud

Antonyms

• solitude
• individual

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'pack' or 'flock' for different animals.
• Using it in a singular context incorrectly without understanding grouping.
• Not recognizing its use in non-literal contexts, such as 'a swarm of activity.'