whizz

UK: wɪz | US: wɪz

Definition

  1. vi. to move quickly with a buzzing or hissing sound

  2. n. a person who is extremely skilled at something (informal)

  3. n. the sound of something moving swiftly through the air

Structure
whizz <onomatopoeic, imitative of a swift, buzzing sound>
Etymology

"Whizz" is an onomatopoeic word, directly mimicking the sharp, buzzing sound of rapid movement (e.g., an arrow or object cutting through air). Its spelling and meaning have remained closely tied to sound imitation since its first recorded use in the 16th century. As slang, it later extended to describe someone exceptionally skilled (e.g., "math whizz"), metaphorically linking speed and proficiency.

Examples

  1. The arrow whizzed past my ear.

  2. She’s a whizz at solving complex equations.

  3. The car whizzed down the highway.

  4. I heard a whizz as the bullet missed the target.

  5. He whizzed through the exam in half the time.