natation

American  

[ney-tey-shuhn, na-] / neɪˈteɪ ʃən, næ- /

noun

1. an act or the skill of swimming.

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natation British  

/ nəˈteɪʃən /

noun

1. a formal or literary word for swimming See swimming

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Other Word Forms

• natational adjective

Etymology

Origin of natation

1535–45; < Latin natātiōn- (stem of natātiō ), equivalent to natāt ( us ) (past participle of natāre to swim) + -iōn- -ion

Explanation

Is your favorite activity at summer camp archery, arts and crafts, or natation? Natation simply means "the act of swimming." If you want to get really fancy, use this word in its two adjective forms: invite friends to swim in your pool by suggesting a "natatorial adventure"? Or refer to your bathing suit as "natatory attire." Although it sounds academic, natation is the simple act of swimming or floating.

Example Sentences

Il pratique la natation et est végétarien – c’est la seule cause qu’il intègre dans son travail.

From New York Times • Feb. 12, 2023

Hit this north Scottsdale natation nirvana that features two heated 25-meter pools boasting approximately 20 lanes.

From Newsweek

Though he was pitched by the heels into mucker about three times a week, that he might acquire the useful art of natation, he still seemed to grow dirtier and dirtier.

From The Secret Glory by Machen, Arthur

This animal is rendered more terrific from the velocity of his powers of natation, thus being able to discharge its thunder far and near.

From Curiosities of Medical Experience by Millingen, J. G. (John Gideon)

But, even as many sailors cannot swim a stroke, so many an inlander, born and brought up within sight of fresh water, has never taken the trouble to grasp the simplest rudiments of natation.

From Further Adventures of Lad by Terhune, Albert Payson