whirl

UK: wɜːl | US: wɜːrl

Definition

  1. v. to spin or rotate rapidly

  2. v. to move or cause to move in a circular or spiraling course

  3. n. a rapid spinning or rotating movement

  4. n. a state of confusion or bustling activity

Structure
whirl <to turn rapidly>
Etymology

The word "whirl" traces back to Old English hweorflan, meaning "to turn or revolve." It is related to Old Norse hvirfla ("to whirl") and shares roots with other Germanic words denoting circular motion. The modern sense retains the core idea of rapid spinning, both literally (e.g., a whirlwind) and metaphorically (e.g., a whirl of activity).

Examples

  1. The leaves began to whirl in the autumn wind.

  2. She felt her head whirl after spinning in circles.

  3. The dancer’s skirt whirled as she moved across the stage.

  4. The news sent his mind into a whirl of emotions.

  5. A whirl of dust rose from the unpaved road.