This is the 170th most frequent Afrikaans word.
merwe
The Afrikaans word "merwe" means "wrinkle" or "crease" in English.
In this sentence, 'Merwe' is used as part of a proper noun, referring to the name of a river.
Die Merwe-rivier vloei deur die plaas in die somer.
The Merwe river flows through the farm in the summer.
Here, 'merwe' indicates a streak or continuous line, describing a component of the painting.
Sy gebruik 'n merwe verf om haar skildery te voltooi.
She uses a streak of paint to complete her painting.
In this usage, 'merwe' conveys the idea of a strong, continuous force or speed, metaphorically describing the athlete's motion.