Neddy Merrill is a fictional character from the short story "The Swimmer," written by John Cheever. He is depicted as a middle-aged man who embarks on an unusual journey by swimming through the pools of his affluent neighbors in suburban Connecticut. This journey serves as a metaphor for his life and the passage of time. As Neddy swims from pool to pool, he encounters various people and reflects on his past, revealing themes of nostalgia, loss, and the fleeting nature of youth. His adventure ultimately leads to a poignant realization about his current state and the changes that have occurred in his life.