The word "Swish"

[Tom]

Hi

Could you please tell me if the word "swish" is common? Would any native speaker walking down the street be able to understand it?

Tom

[Alan]

Hi Tom,

In its onomatopoeic sense it would be acceptable suggesting the sound of curtains being drawn or a formal gown sweeping past. But to me it also has a slightly slangy sense in another life suggesting elegant or dressed in your best clothes.

Alan
_________________
English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story A day in the life of a driving instructor