Whirling: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes rapid circular motion, often used to convey a sense of confusion or excitement.

• The leaves were whirling in the autumn wind.
• Her thoughts were whirling with possibilities.

Suggests rapid motion in circles, often used for objects or activities where speed and continuity are emphasized.

• The washing machine is spinning the clothes dry.
• He felt like his head was spinning after the roller coaster ride.

Implies a lighter or more delicate motion, often associated with dance or playful action.

• The ballerina was twirling gracefully on stage.
• She couldn't help but twirl her hair while thinking.

Describes an object turning around a central axis, frequently used in technical or mechanical contexts.

• The Earth is constantly rotating on its axis.
• The gears in the clock are rotating silently.

Used to describe something that is moving rapidly in a circular manner, often evoking a sense of fast and continuous motion. It can have a dramatic or intense connotation.

• The leaves were whirling in the wind
• The dancers were whirling around the stage

Suggests a smooth, fluid circular motion, often used to describe liquids, smoke, and things that move gracefully. It often evokes a sense of beauty or complexity.

• The coffee was swirling in the cup
• The smoke was swirling up into the sky

Commonly used to describe things that rotate around a central point, often with a steady or controlled motion. It can be used for physical objects or abstract situations like thoughts.

• The wheel was spinning rapidly
• Her head was spinning with excitement

Indicates a motion that involves turning or bending, often in a more forceful or abrupt manner. It can be used both for physical movements and metaphorical situations, sometimes with a negative nuance.

• The vine was twisting around the tree
• His face twisted with pain