Swimming-averse

Swimming-averse describes a person who dislikes swimming, avoids swimming activities, and may even experience fear or discomfort related to being in water deeper than a wading depth. This aversion can stem from a variety of factors, including a bad experience in the water, fear of drowning, a simple dislike of getting wet, or a general lack of comfort with physical exertion or the sensation of being submerged. The term highlights a preference for dry land and a resistance to participating in aquatic activities, extending beyond simple preference to an active avoidance of swimming and related environments like pools, lakes, or oceans, although they may have no problem with being near water. The degree of aversion can vary, from mild hesitation to intense phobia.

Swimming-averse meaning with examples

• Despite living in a coastal town, Emily was swimming-averse. The thought of the ocean, its vastness and unseen depths, filled her with unease. She preferred sunbathing on the beach, enjoying the sand and sea breeze, but always kept a safe distance from the water's edge. Even paddling at the shore, she would hesitate. Pool parties held no appeal for her; she would rather skip the event all together.
• John, although athletic in other areas, remained swimming-averse since nearly drowning as a child. He avoided any situations involving open water or deep pools. Family vacations to lake houses were often difficult, as he always stayed back in the cabin while everyone else enjoyed their time. He would find other activities to do, such as playing cards or doing chores, to pass the time.
• Maria, while not exactly terrified, was definitely swimming-averse. She found the chlorine smell of pools unpleasant and never enjoyed feeling wet and cold. She would agree to join friends at water parks, but then would stay by the snack bar, avoiding the water slides and wave pools. It was just not something she enjoyed doing. She'd take an ice cream or go shopping any day of the week.
• The child, recently diagnosed with aquaphobia, was intensely swimming-averse. Even the sight of a swimming pool on television would cause a panic attack, and when the family planned a trip to the beach, her parents had to figure out how to deal with her fear, she was going to stay home, or just be around the beach. Despite her parent's encouragements to try swimming lessons, she resolutely refused to even consider it.
• During a company retreat to a resort with a large pool, the accountant, notorious for being swimming-averse, surprised everyone by opting to stay in his room and work. While his colleagues enjoyed the water aerobics and poolside relaxation, he stayed busy with financial reports, declaring that he much preferred spreadsheets to swimwear. He later reported feeling more refreshed and rested that his colleagues.