I. ˈhwər(-ə)l, ˈwər(-ə)l 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
whirl ed around in surprise
3. : to pass, move, or go quickly
whirl ed down the hallway
4. : to become giddy or dizzy : reel
my head is whirl ing
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
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