Adult Swim is a late-night programming block on Cartoon Network made for older teens and adults, featuring edgy animation, comedy, and experimental shows.

Meaning

The name comes from a swimming-pool term where children are out of the water and only adults are allowed to swim. On TV, it became the name for Cartoon Network’s adult-oriented nighttime lineup.

What it airs

Adult Swim is known for:

  • Animated sitcoms.
  • Surreal or absurd comedy.
  • Satire and parody.
  • Some live-action or experimental content.

Simple example

Shows associated with Adult Swim have included titles like Rick and Morty , Aqua Teen Hunger Force , and Robot Chicken.

Quick note

If you meant the phrase in a different context, such as a literal pool sign, it just means a time when only adults are allowed to swim.

TL;DR: Adult Swim is Cartoon Network’s late-night block for adult-leaning animation and comedy.