Whorl

Quick meaning: Whorl is a noun meaning Each circle, volution or equivalent in a pattern of concentric circles, ovals, arcs, or a spiral.

Meaning

Each circle, volution or equivalent in a pattern of concentric circles, ovals, arcs, or a spiral.

More Meanings

1. (botany) A circle of three or more leaves, flowers, or other organs, about the same part or joint of a stem.
2. (zoology) A volution, or turn, of the spire of a univalve shell.
3. (anatomy) Any volution, as for example in the human ear or fingerprint.
4. A flywheel, a weight attached to a spindle.
5. (intransitive) To form a pattern of concentric circles.

Example Sentences

“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.

Word Forms

• whorls
• whorling
• whorled

Synonyms for whorl

Depending on context, synonyms include coil, roll, gyre, curl, helix, scroll.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include curlicue, coil, gyre, roll, lock, curl.

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