Swain (?), n. [OE. swain, swein, Icel. sveinn a boy, servant; akin to Sw. sven, Dan. svend, AS. swān, OHG. swein.] 1. A servant. [Obs.]

Him behoves serve himself that has no swain.

2. A young man dwelling in the country; a rustic; esp., a cuntry gallant or lover; -- chiefly in poetry.

It were a happy life
To be no better than a homely swain.

Blest swains! whose nymphs in every grace excel.

Swain (?), n. [OE. swain, swein, Icel. sveinn a boy, servant; akin to Sw. sven, Dan. svend, AS. swān, OHG. swein.] 1. A servant. [Obs.]

Him behoves serve himself that has no swain.

2. A young man dwelling in the country; a rustic; esp., a cuntry gallant or lover; -- chiefly in poetry.

It were a happy life
To be no better than a homely swain.

Blest swains! whose nymphs in every grace excel.

• A servant.
  
• A young man dwelling in the country; a rustic; esp., a country gallant or lover; — chiefly in poetry.