whirl

I. 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 • whirler noun II. noun Date: 15th century 1. a. a rapid rotating or circling movement b. something undergoing such a movement 2. a. a busy or fast-paced succession of events ; bustle <

a whirl of activity

> <

the social whirl

> b. a confused or disturbed mental state ; turmoil <

a whirl of febrile excitement — Emily Skeel

> 3. an experimental or brief attempt ; try <

gave it a whirl

>