[swiv.el] n, often attrib [ME; akin to OE swifan to revolve, OHG swebon to roll, heave] (14c): a device joining two parts so that one or both can pivot freely (as on a bolt or pin)
[2]swivel vb -eled or -elled ; -el.ing or -el.ling vt (1794): to turn on or as if on a swivel "~ed his eyes in various directions" ~ vi: to swing or turn on or as if on a swivel