black swan
The term "black swan" originates from the discovery of black swans in Australia, which challenged the prior belief that all swans were white. It has since been used metaphorically to describe rare and unpredictable events with significant consequences.
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Definition
B2Ornithology
(scientific)A large waterbird with black feathers and a red bill, native to Australia.
Example
- The black swan is a common sight in Australian wetlands.
- Cygnus atratus, commonly known as the black swan, is noted for its striking plumage.
C1Finance and Economics
(technical)An unexpected and rare event that has a significant impact on financial markets or the economy.
Example
- The 2008 financial crisis is often cited as a black swan event.
- Investors must prepare for black swan events to mitigate potential losses.
C1General Metaphor
(figurative)A rare and unforeseen event with major consequences, often rationalized in hindsight.
Example
- The sudden pandemic was a black swan that caught the world unprepared.
- In retrospect, many tried to explain the black swan event as if it were predictable.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "black swan":