Definition of "swivel" [swiv•el]

• A link, pivot, or other fastening so designed that it permits the free turning of attached parts. (noun)
• A pivoted support that allows an attached object, such as a chair or gun, to turn in a horizontal plane. (noun)
• A gun that turns on a pivot. (noun)
• To turn or rotate on or as if on a swivel. (verb-transitive)
• To secure, fit, or support with a swivel. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "If a swivel is used, the roll rarely reverses and the lure only moves sideways in one direction."
• "And since the front sling swivel is sited far forward on the barrel, the Ruger rides very low on your shoulder."
• "Many anglers using these plugs remove both treble hooks and attach only a single large hook (e.g., a 3/0 to 5/0 Siwash) on a swivel from the front hanger via a split ring."