First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1whirl
verb \ˈhwər(-ə)l, ˈwər(-ə)l\
: to move or go in a circle or curve especially with force or speed
: to turn rapidly in circles
: to turn quickly and suddenly
Full Definition of WHIRL
intransitive verb
1
: to move in a circle or similar curve especially with force or speed
2
3
: to pass, move, or go quickly <whirled down the hallway>
4
: to become giddy or dizzy : reel <my head is whirling>
transitive verb
1
: to drive, impel, or convey with or as if with a rotary motion
2
a : to cause to turn usually rapidly on or around an axis : rotate b : to cause to turn abruptly around or aside
3
obsolete : to throw or hurl violently with a revolving motion
— whirl·er \ˈhwər-lər, ˈwər-\ noun
See whirl defined for English-language learners
See whirl defined for kids
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Origin of WHIRL
Middle English, probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse hvirfla to whirl; akin to Old High German wirbil whirlwind, Old English hweorfan to turn — more at wharf
2whirl
noun
: a fast turning movement
: something that is turning quickly in circles
: a state of busy movement or activity
Full Definition of WHIRL
1
a : a rapid rotating or circling movement b : something undergoing such a movement
2
3
: an experimental or brief attempt : try <gave it a whirl>
See whirl defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of WHIRL
15th century
WHIRLING Defined for Kids
1whirl
verb \ˈhwərl, ˈwərl\
whirledwhirl·ing
Definition of WHIRL for Kids
1
: to turn or move in circles rapidly
2
: to feel dizzy <After the ride my head whirled.>
3
: to move or carry around rapidly
2whirl
noun
Definition of WHIRL for Kids
1
: a rapid movement in circles
2
: something that is or seems to be moving in circles <a whirl of dust>
3
: a state of busy movement : bustle
4
: a brief or experimental try <I've never tried, but I'll give it a whirl.>
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