Whirled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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whirled

[wɜːrld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

motion, spinning

To whirled means to spin or move rapidly around a central point. It is often used to describe something that rotates swiftly in a circular motion.

Synonyms

rotated, spun, twirled.

Examples of usage

  • The dancer whirled gracefully across the stage.
  • Leaves whirled in the autumn wind.
  • He whirled in excitement when he heard the news.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'whirled away' often appears in songs, symbolizing nostalgia or the feeling of being caught up in a moment.
  • In animated movies, characters often 'whirl' dramatically during dance sequences, adding excitement and energy.
  • Popular dance moves often incorporate whirling motions, emphasizing joy and freedom of expression.

Science

  • In physics, the concept of angular momentum explains how objects 'whirled' can maintain their spinning motion until acted upon by another force.
  • The motion of galaxies can be described as whirling, as they rotate around their centers, demonstrating the vastness of this concept.
  • Water spiraling down a drain creates a whirlpool effect, showcasing the principles of fluid dynamics.

Literature

  • In poetry, the imagery of swirling leaves or whirling winds evokes feelings of change and motion, often used to depict life transitions.
  • Classic novels often include scenes where characters 'whirled' laundered clothes in a spin, symbolizing the hectic pace of life during certain historical periods.
  • Notable works, like 'Don Quixote,' use the idea of 'whirling' to highlight the absurd and chaotic aspects of the hero's journey.

Psychology

  • The sensation of disorientation often felt during intense spinning can serve as a metaphor for emotional turbulence.
  • Mindfulness techniques sometimes use the image of 'whirling' thoughts to help individuals recognize and then calm racing ideas.
  • In therapy, clients may discuss feelings of being 'whirled' by life events to better analyze and process their experiences.

Origin of 'whirled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'whirled' is derived from the Middle English term 'whirlen,' which means to twist or turn.
  • Its roots can be traced back to Old English 'hwierfan,' which referred to spinning or revolving.
  • The progression of the word shows how language evolves, often simplifying sounds over centuries.

The word 'whirl' originates from Middle English 'whirlen' (to whirl, to rotate), a frequentative form of the Old English 'hwierfan', meaning to turn or rotate. This Old English term is derived from Proto-Germanic *kwirwōną, which also relates to various Germanic languages with similar meanings, such as 'wirbeln' in German and 'wirlen' in Dutch. The word has evolved over the centuries, with 'whirled' serving as the simple past tense and past participle of 'whirl'. The action of whirling has long been associated with both literal spins of objects and metaphorical spins of emotions or events, maintaining its presence in the English language due to its vivid imagery and use in creative expressions.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,449, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.