slaɪd ˈswuːp ˈswuːp a swift descent through the air a very rapid raid seize or catch with a swooping motion move down on as if in an attack The raptor swooped down on its prey The teacher swooped down upon the new students move with a sweep, or in a swooping arc (music) rapid sliding up or down the musical scale the violinist was indulgent with his swoops and slides