Spinning: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to continuous turning around a central point, often used for objects or for describing uneasiness or dizziness.

• The wheels of the car were spinning in the mud
• After riding the roller coaster, I felt like my head was spinning

Typically used in scientific or formal contexts to describe the action of rotating around an axis.

• The rotation of the Earth causes day and night
• The team discussed the rotation of the tires to ensure even wear

Describes rapid, continuous, and often chaotic spinning, which can also sometimes convey a sense of confusion or complexity.

• The leaves were whirling in the autumn wind
• After a full day of activities, her mind was whirling with thoughts

Often used to describe light, playful spinning, such as a person turning around in a playful manner or an object being spun gracefully.

• The ballerina was twirling on stage, captivating the audience
• He twirled his pen while thinking about the answer

This is often used to refer to the process of making yarn from wool or other fibers. It can be used both in traditional hand-spinning and in industrial settings.

• She spends her evenings spinning wool into yarn.
• The factory is known for its efficient spinning techniques.

This is the method of creating fabric by interlacing warp and weft threads, often done on a loom. It can be used to make textiles, baskets, and more.

• The artist displayed her beautiful weaving at the local art show.
• Weaving has been used for centuries to create complex and durable fabrics.

This is specific to the process of making fabric by interlocking loops of yarn with needles. It is often used to describe making items like sweaters, scarves, or blankets.

• She learned knitting from her grandmother and now makes her own clothes.
• Knitting is a therapeutic hobby for many people.

This term is generally broader and refers to the creation of handmade items, which could include a variety of activities such as knitting, sewing, or even making jewelry.

• She loves crafting and often makes handmade gifts for her friends.
• Crafting has become a popular way to relax and de-stress.

Commonly used in media and politics when information is being presented in a way that twists the truth slightly to serve a particular agenda.

• The spokesman was caught spinning the facts to make the policy look more favorable.
• During the interview, the politician was accused of spinning the story to avoid criticism.

Used when someone is controlling or influencing something or someone to get the desired outcome, often secretly or unfairly. This word also has a negative connotation.

• He tried to manipulate the accounts to show higher profits.
• She was accused of manipulating the evidence to win the case.

Typically used when something is being twisted or changed so much that it becomes misleading or false. Often has a negative connotation.

• The report distorts the results of the study to fit a preconceived narrative.
• The camera lens can distort the image if not aligned correctly.

Applies when someone's words or actions are being falsely depicted, leading to misunderstanding or false perception. This also carries a negative connotation.

• The article misrepresented his views on environmental policy.
• The sales pitch misrepresented the actual benefits of the product.