moving or capable of moving at great speed

a swift horse

a swift gallop

occurring suddenly or lasting a very short time

a swift visit

quick to respond; ready

a swift temper

The government was swift to act

any of numerous dark-coloured birds noted for its their fast darting flight in pursuit of insects. They have long narrow pointed wings and a forked tail and spend most of their lives on the wing: family Apodidae

any of several lizards that run swiftly: esp genus Sceloporus

a reel for winding yarn or thread

any of the large cylinders that carry forward the material in a carding machine