Main Entry: ¹whirl

Pronunciation: \ˈhwər(-ə)l, ˈwər(-ə)l\

Function: verb

Etymology: 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

Date: 14th century

intransitive verb 1 : to move in a circle or similar curve especially with force or speed
2 a : to turn on or around an axis like a wheel : rotate b : to turn abruptly around or aside : wheel <whirled around in surprise>
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