Swirling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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swirling

[ˈswɜːr.lɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

weather

Move in a twisting or spiraling pattern.

Synonyms

spin, twist, whirl.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
swirling	Swirling is often used to describe something that is moving in a circular pattern, especially when it comes to liquids, gases, or even emotions. It implies a sense of motion and fluidity. The leaves were swirling in the wind Her mind was swirling with thoughts
twist	Twist is typically used to describe something being turned or bent into a different shape, often by applying force. It can also be used metaphorically for complex situations. He twisted the cap off the bottle The plot of the movie had a surprising twist
whirl	Whirl describes fast, circular motion and is usually used to express rapid movement or confusion. It can apply to physical objects, people, or even abstract concepts like thoughts. The dancers whirled around the floor Her head was in a whirl after the long day
spin	Spin is used to describe something rotating rapidly around an axis. It's often used for objects like tops, wheels, or even people when they turn around quickly. The child loves to spin the top She spun around to see who had called her name

Examples of usage

The leaves were swirling in the wind.
The snowflakes were swirling gently to the ground.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

water

Moving round and round quickly.

Synonyms

spinning, twisting, whirling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
swirling	Best used when describing something that is moving in a circular, often chaotic motion, especially fluids, air, or abstract concepts like thoughts. The tea leaves were swirling in the cup. She felt a whirlwind of swirling emotions taking over.
whirling	Best used when describing rapid circular motion, usually emphasizing speed and energy. It is often related to lively and vigorous activities or natural phenomena. The leaves were whirling in the autumn wind. The dancers were whirling around the room.
spinning	Used when describing an object turning quickly around a central point or axis. Often related to physical objects like tops, machinery, or even people getting dizzy. The ballerina was spinning gracefully. The disk in the drive is spinning at high speed.
twisting	Typically refers to something being bent or contorted into a shape, or to describe complex plots and situations. It can also imply difficulty or pain. She was twisting the wire into a loop. The plot of the movie had many twisting turns.

Examples of usage

The swirling waters of the river created a mesmerizing effect.
The swirling currents made swimming difficult.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

art

A twisting or spiraling shape or pattern.

Synonyms

spiral, twist, whirl.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
swirling	Used to describe something moving in a pattern or shape of a circle. Often used to describe liquids, smoke, or objects in the air. The autumn leaves were swirling in the wind. She watched the milk swirling in her coffee.
twist	Used to describe something turning forcefully or forming into a bent shape. Can also be used metaphorically to describe an unexpected change. She had to twist the lid to open the jar. There was a surprising twist at the end of the movie.
whirl	Used to describe something spinning quickly, often in an uncontrolled way. It can be used for both physical and mental states. The children were whirling around the playground. Her mind was whirling with all the new information.
spiral	Used to describe something that goes in a circular and continuous upward or downward path, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. The staircase spiraled up to the top floor. The conversation started to spiral into an argument.

Examples of usage

The painting featured intricate swirls of color.
She added swirls of frosting to the cake.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'swirling'

The word 'swirling' is derived from the verb 'swirl', which originated in the early 16th century. It is believed to have come from the Middle English word 'swyrlen', which means to whirl around. The concept of swirling has been observed in nature, such as swirling winds, waters, and patterns. Over time, the word has evolved to represent various movements and patterns that involve twisting or spiraling.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,697, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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15694 stormed
15695 pondered
15696 buggy
15697 swirling
15698 racially
15699 superficially
15700 regent
...