VocabDictionary

swag

/swæɡ/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Promotional merchandise, typically branded with a company logo, given away for free at events or conferences.

Example Sentences:
  • The conference attendees lined up to collect their bags full of corporate swag.
  • I got a free hoodie and a water bottle as part of the company swag.
2.noun

A confident, stylish, or cool manner of behaving or dressing.

Example Sentences:
  • He walked into the room with so much swag that everyone turned to look.
  • Her personal style has a lot of swag.
3.noun

Stolen goods or loot, especially that obtained by a burglar or thief.

Example Sentences:
  • The police recovered the swag hidden in the basement of the abandoned house.
  • The thieves argued over how to divide the swag.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “swag” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “swag”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originating in the early 16th century, the term likely derives from the Scandinavian 'svagga' (to sway or rock). Historically, it referred to a bulging bag or a thief's loot. In the early 21st century, it evolved into a slang term for 'style' or 'confidence,' popularized by hip-hop culture, often interpreted as an acronym for 'Secretly We Are Gay' (a false backronym) or 'Stuff We All Get' (referring to promotional merchandise).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a person walking with a 'swaying' gait because they are so confident in their style.

Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “swag

1. What is the meaning of “swag” in English?

In English, swag (noun) is defined as: “Promotional merchandise, typically branded with a company logo, given away for free at events or conferences.”.

2. How do you use “swag” in a sentence?

The conference attendees lined up to collect their bags full of corporate swag.

3. What are English synonyms of “swag”?

Common synonyms include:merchandise,loot,style,panache,bounty

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “swag”?

Originating in the early 16th century, the term likely derives from the Scandinavian 'svagga' (to sway or rock). Historically, it referred to a bulging bag or a thief's loot. In the early 21st century, it evolved into a slang term for 'style' or 'confidence,' popularized by hip-hop culture, often interpreted as an acronym for 'Secretly We Are Gay' (a false backronym) or 'Stuff We All Get' (referring to promotional merchandise).