swimming-hole

A family enjoys a picnic near a cool swimming-hole on a hot summer day.

Definition

Noun: A swimming-hole refers to a natural body of water, such as a deep pool in a river, a lake, or a pond, that is suitable and often used for swimming. It typically implies a secluded or informal spot, rather than a man-made swimming pool.

Usage Examples

• (A natural, secluded spot in a river or lake for swimming.)
• (A familiar, informal place for swimming in nature.)

Advanced Usage

• "secret swimming-hole": A hidden or less-known natural swimming spot.
  • The locals know about a secret swimming-hole behind the waterfall. (A private, undisclosed natural swimming area.)
• "swimming-hole season": The time of year when natural water bodies are warm enough for swimming.
  • Swimming-hole season starts in late spring and lasts until early autumn. (The period suitable for swimming in natural waters.)

Variants and Related Words

• Swimming (n): the activity of moving through water using one's limbs.
  • Swimming is excellent exercise. (The act of propelling oneself in water.)
• Hole (n): an opening or hollow place in a solid surface.
  • The rabbit hid in a hole. (A cavity or depression.)
• Swim (v): to move through water by moving the limbs.
  • She can swim across the lake. (To propel oneself in water.)
• Swimming pool (n): a man-made structure filled with water for swimming.
  • The hotel has a large swimming pool. (An artificial swimming facility.)

Synonyms

• Swimming spot: a general term for any place where swimming is possible.
  • We found a quiet swimming spot near the bridge. (A location for swimming.)
• Natural pool: a body of water formed naturally, often used for swimming.
  • The natural pool was crystal clear. (A naturally occurring swimming area.)
• Swimming hole: the exact term, with no perfect synonym, but "swimming place" or "swim hole" (less formal) can be used.

Related Idioms

• "Jump into the swimming-hole": To dive or enter a natural swimming spot eagerly.
  • After the hike, they all jumped into the swimming-hole to cool off. (They entered the water enthusiastically.)
• "Find your own swimming-hole": Figuratively, to discover one's own niche or comfortable place.
  • In a new city, you need to find your own swimming-hole. (Find a place where you feel at ease.)

Phrasal Verbs (with "swim" or "hole")

• Swim in: to move through water within a specific area.
  • We swam in the swimming-hole all afternoon. (To move through water in a particular place.)
• Hole up: to take shelter or hide.
  • They holed up near the swimming-hole during the storm. (To stay in a secluded place.)