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Whoosh Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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whoosh

[wʊʃ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sound effect

To move quickly, making a rushing sound like the wind or water.

Synonyms

swoosh, whizz, zoom.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
whoosh

Same as the first 'whoosh' - signifies fast movement with a rushing sound.

  • The train whooshed by the platform.
  • She felt a whoosh of wind as the roller coaster sped down.
whizz

Refers to quick, high-speed movement, usually creating a high-pitched sound. Often used for small objects like bullets or gadgets going by quickly.

  • The bullet whizzed past his ear.
  • He whizzed through the homework in no time.
swoosh

Describes a smooth, fluid movement, typically accompanied by a soft, swishing sound. Often used for things gliding through the air like a bird's wings or a brand logo.

  • The bird swooshed down to catch its prey.
  • The swoosh of the brand's logo is easily recognizable.
zoom

Conveys rapid movement, often with a sense of sudden acceleration or focus. Commonly used for vehicles, fast motion in photography, or the sound of sudden speed bursts.

  • The motorcycle zoomed down the highway.
  • He zoomed in on the photograph to see the details clearly.

Examples of usage

  • The arrow whooshed through the air.
  • The car whooshed past us on the highway.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The sound 'whoosh' has been popularized in movies and cartoons, often used to emphasize fast movements or dramatic escapes.
  • In superhero comics, characters like speedsters often have 'whoosh' depicted in the action scenes to show their incredible speed.

Science

  • In physics, when objects move quickly through a fluid (like air), they create sounds that can be described as 'whooshing.'
  • The 'whoosh' is often associated with principles of aerodynamics, illustrating how air flows around rapidly moving objects.

Literature

  • Authors often use 'whoosh' to add excitement to scenes involving fast actions, capturing the reader's attention effectively.
  • Poets may utilize the sound in their work to evoke movement and energy, making their verses more dynamic.

Psychology

  • The sound can elicit feelings of excitement or thrill due to its association with rapid motion, often raising adrenaline.
  • Hearing 'whoosh' can be linked to responding quickly in situations, creating a subconscious urge to move or react.

Origin of 'whoosh'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'whoosh' is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, imitating the sound of air moving quickly.
  • It’s an onomatopoeic word, meaning it mimics the sound it describes, much like 'buzz' for a bee.

The word 'whoosh' is onomatopoeic, derived from the sound itself. It is often used in comics, literature, and movies to describe a fast movement or sound effect. The origin of 'whoosh' can be traced back to the late 19th century when it first appeared in English language usage.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,326 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.