swirl
Swirl (verb) means to move in a twisting, circular pattern. Example: “Leaves swirled around the yard in the autumn wind.”
How to use swirl
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA twisting, circular movement or pattern, or to move that way.
Word forms
swirled past tense, swirls plural, swirls singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Leaves _____ around the yard in the autumn wind.
Etymology
Probably from Old Norse, related to a word meaning "to swing or twirl"; the same family gives us swarm.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for swirl
See all rhymes for swirl →Frequently asked questions
What does “swirl” mean?
The word “swirl” means to move in a twisting, circular pattern. In plain terms, a twisting, circular movement or pattern, or to move that way.
How do you pronounce “swirl”?
“Swirl” is pronounced swurl (/swɝl/ in IPA).
How do you use “swirl” in a sentence?
Here is “swirl” used in a sentence: “Leaves swirled around the yard in the autumn wind.”
What part of speech is “swirl”?
Depending on how it is used, “swirl” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “swirl” come from?
The word “swirl” comes from Old Norse. Probably from Old Norse, related to a word meaning "to swing or twirl"; the same family gives us swarm.
How many meanings does “swirl” have?
“Swirl” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to move in a twisting, circular pattern.
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