Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Twirl Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💫
Add to dictionary

twirl

[twɜːrl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

dance

To twirl means to spin around quickly, often while dancing or performing a show. It involves rotating your body swiftly in a circular motion.

Synonyms

rotate, spin, whirl.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
twirl

Use when describing something or someone turning lightly and gracefully, often in a playful or elegant manner.

  • The ballerina twirled across the stage
  • She twirled her hair around her finger
spin

Use when describing something turning quickly around a central point, often with a sense of speed or excitement.

  • The top spun rapidly on the table
  • She spun around in surprise when she heard her name
whirl

Use when describing something or someone moving rapidly in circles, often with a sense of chaos or intensity. Can have a slightly more dramatic or overwhelming connotation.

  • The leaves whirled in the wind
  • His thoughts whirled as he tried to focus on the exam
rotate

Use when describing something turning around a central point or axis, often in a mechanical or systematic manner.

  • The Earth rotates on its axis
  • Rotate the knob to adjust the volume

Examples of usage

  • The ballerina twirled gracefully on stage.
  • She twirled in excitement when she heard the good news.
Context #2 | Noun

hair

In hairstyling, a twirl refers to a section of hair that has been twisted or curled around itself. It is often used to create intricate updos or elegant hairstyles.

Synonyms

coil, curl, twist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
twirl

To spin or rotate something rapidly or lightly, often used in a playful or graceful manner.

  • She twirled her baton effortlessly during the parade.
  • The little girl twirled in her new dress, giggling with joy.
curl

To shape into curves or ringlets, typically used for hair or other soft elements.

  • She used the curling iron to curl her hair.
  • The cat curled up on the windowsill, purring softly.
coil

To arrange something in loops or spirals, commonly used when talking about ropes, wires, or snakes.

  • The rope was neatly coiled up by the dock worker.
  • The snake coiled itself around the branch of a tree.
twist

To turn or bend something into a different shape, often used when force is applied.

  • He had to twist the cap off the bottle.
  • She twisted her ankle while jogging, causing her to limp.

Examples of usage

  • She added a twirl to her bun for a more sophisticated look.
  • The hairstylist created beautiful twirls in her hair for the wedding.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Dance

  • Twirl is an essential movement in various forms of dance, especially ballet, where it adds grace and fluidity.
  • In many styles, twirling adds flair and expresses emotion, allowing dancers to connect with the audience.

Sports

  • In figure skating, a twirl (often called a twizzle) is a crucial element that showcases a skater's balance and technique.
  • Gymnasts frequently incorporate twirls into their routines, demonstrating agility and control.

Childhood Play

  • Many children enjoy twirling during playtime, whether it's in dance classes, playgrounds, or just for fun, emphasizing joy and expression.
  • Twirling is often associated with carefree moments, reinforcing physical coordination and balance in young children.

Cultural References

  • In literature and films, twirling often symbolizes happiness or celebration, such as in dances or festive scenes.
  • Songs and musical performances frequently include imagery of twirling to evoke a sense of joy and movement.

Origin of 'twirl'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the 14th century, possibly derived from the Middle English word 'twirlen', which means to spin.
  • Initially, the term was related to the action of twisting or causing to spin, giving it a lively connotation over the years.

The word 'twirl' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the Middle English word 'twirle' which means to spin around. It is related to the Old English word 'twirlian' meaning to whirl around. Over the centuries, 'twirl' has evolved to encompass various meanings related to spinning, rotating, and twisting.

See also: twirling.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,112 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.