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Whorl: meaning, definitions and examples

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whorl

 

[ wɜːrl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

fingerprints

A whorl is a pattern on a person's fingertips that consists of spirals or concentric circles. It is one of the three basic fingerprint patterns, along with loops and arches. Whorls are unique to each individual and can be used for identification purposes.

Examples of usage

  • The forensic expert identified the suspect based on the whorl pattern on the fingertips.
  • Her whorl fingerprints were distinct from those of her siblings.
Context #2 | Noun

botany

In botany, a whorl refers to a set of leaves, petals, or other floral parts that are arranged in a circle around a stem. This arrangement can be seen in flowers, such as lilies, where the petals form a whorl around the center of the flower.

Examples of usage

  • The lily flower had multiple whorls of petals.
  • The botanist noted the whorl pattern of leaves on the stem.

Translations

Translations of the word "whorl" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vórtice

🇮🇳 घुमाव

🇩🇪 Wirbel

🇮🇩 pilin

🇺🇦 завиток

🇵🇱 zawijas

🇯🇵 渦巻き (uzumaki)

🇫🇷 tourbillon

🇪🇸 vórtice

🇹🇷 girdap

🇰🇷 소용돌이 (soyoongdori)

🇸🇦 دوامة (dawama)

🇨🇿 vír

🇸🇰 vír

🇨🇳 漩涡 (xuánwō)

🇸🇮 vrtinec

🇮🇸 vindsveipur

🇰🇿 құйын

🇬🇪 ხვეული (khveuli)

🇦🇿 burğac

🇲🇽 vórtice

Etymology

The word 'whorl' originated from the Old English word 'whorl', which meant 'a spinning object' or 'a circle'. It has been used in various contexts, from describing patterns in fingerprints to floral arrangements in botany. The term has evolved over time to encompass different meanings, all related to circular or spiral patterns.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,995, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.