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1whelk
noun \ˈhwelk, ˈwelk, ˈwilk\
Definition of WHELK
: any of numerous large marine snails (as of the genus Buccinum); especially : one (B. undatum) used as food in Europe
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Origin of WHELK
Middle English welke, from Old English weoloc; akin to Middle Dutch willoc whelk and perhaps to Latin volvere to turn — more at voluble
First Known Use: before 12th century
Rhymes with WHELK
2whelk
noun \ˈhwelk, ˈwelk\
Definition of WHELK
Origin of WHELK
Middle English whelke, from Old English hwylca, from hwelian to suppurate
First Known Use: before 12th century
WHELK Defined for Kids
whelk
noun \ˈhwelk, ˈwelk\
Definition of WHELK for Kids
: a large sea snail that has a spiral shell and is sometimes used for food in Europe
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