swirl

[ swurl ]

verb (used without object)

1. to move around or along with a whirling motion; whirl; eddy.
2. to be dizzy or giddy, as the head.

   Synonyms: spin, reel

verb (used with object)

1. to cause to whirl; twist.

noun

1. a swirling movement; whirl; eddy.
2. a twist, as of hair around the head or of trimming on a hat.
3. any curving, twisting line, shape, or form.
4. confusion; disorder.

swirl

/ swɜːl /

verb

1. to turn or cause to turn in a twisting spinning fashion
2. intr to be dizzy; swim

   my head was swirling

noun

1. a whirling or spinning motion, esp in water
2. a whorl; curl
3. the act of swirling or stirring
4. dizzy confusion

Derived Forms

• ˈswirling, adjective
• ˈswirly, adjective
• ˈswirlingly, adverb

Other Words From

• swirling·ly adverb
• outswirl verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of swirl¹

1375–1425; late Middle English (north) < Scandinavian; compare Norwegian svirla; cognate with Dutch zwirrelen to whirl, German (dial.) schwirrlen to totter; all < a root *swir- (whence Danish svirre to whirl, German schwirren to whir) + -l- frequentative suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of swirl¹

C15: probably from Dutch zwirrelen; related to Norwegian svirla, German schwirren

Example Sentences

Mars Wrigley UK said earlier this month the bar "slipped" through its production line and confirmed the swirl was being kept.

From BBC

Questions had swirled about whether Dawson City's new council, which was elected in late October, would be able to sit if they refused to take the oath.

From BBC

My life without it is a swirl of forces, leading to natural disasters of impulsivity that often lay waste most acutely in my bank account.

From Salon

Rumours swirled around the theatre foyer prior to the show that the former Neighbours star, who recorded hits such as Too Many Broken Hearts and Especially For You, would not be performing.

From BBC

In another tank, tadpoles are swirling around using simple swimming motions.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• boil
• churn
• roil
• twirl
• whirl