quirt

[ kwurt ]

noun

1. a riding whip consisting of a short, stout stock and a lash of braided leather.

verb (used with object)

1. to strike with a quirt.

quirt

/ kwɜːt /

noun

1. a whip with a leather thong at one end

verb

1. to strike with a quirt

Word History and Origins

Origin of quirt¹

1835–45, Americanism; perhaps < Spanish cuerda cord

Word History and Origins

Origin of quirt¹

C19: from Spanish cuerda cord

Example Sentences

These barrel-shaped filter feeders have a protective rod running the length of their nerve cord while young, making them and other sea quirts our closest relatives among invertebrates.

From Scientific American

He slapped his quirt on his leg and we all ran.

From Literature

“Glenda said I ought to do this full-time,” he said, gesturing to several quirts drying on a rack by the door.

From Washington Times

Horace rested his elbow on his saddle horn and stirred a fly from his horse’s shoulder with his rawhide quirt.

From Literature

The last ball quirts off Smith’s bum/pad and runs away to fine leg for four leg-byes.

From The Guardian