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whorl

noun

No English definition recorded for this entry.

L29146 on Wikidata ↗

verb

No English definition recorded for this entry.

L29147 on Wikidata ↗

Wiktionary

Pronunciation: /(h)wɔː(ɹ)l/ / /(h)wɜː(ɹ)l/

noun

Etymology: From alteration of whirl (verb).

  1. Each circle, volution or equivalent in a pattern of concentric circles, ovals, arcs, or a spiral.
  2. A circle of three or more leaves, flowers, or other organs, about the same part or joint of a stem.
  3. A volution, or turn, of the spire of a univalve shell.
  4. Any volution, as for example in the human ear or fingerprint.
  5. A flywheel, a weight attached to a spindle.

verb

Etymology: From alteration of whirl (verb).

  1. To form a pattern of concentric circles.

    “Waves Against the Sand,” to music by Martinu, which opened the program, filled the stage space with whorling patterns of dancers surging with the gentle but ceaseless momentum of the sea.