birl
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /bɜrl/
KK: /bɜrl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To spin or rotate, often used in the context of a specific type of spinning activity.
Example
The children enjoyed birling around in the playground.
Tense Forms
Past: birlled
Past Participle: birlled
Conversation
Have you ever tried to birl at the local fair?
No, I haven't! What's it like?
It's actually really fun to birl with friends and see who can spin the longest.
That sounds hilarious! I would love to give it a shot.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
spin
twirl
whirl
Antonyms
stabilize
stop
settle
noun
Definition
A sound that is like a humming or whirring, often made by something spinning or moving quickly.
Example
The birl of the spinning top filled the room with a pleasant sound.
Conversation
Did you hear that strange birl coming from the fan?
Yeah, it sounded like it was struggling to spin properly.
I wonder if it needs cleaning to stop that funny birl.
transitive verb
Definition
To make a floating log spin quickly by using one's feet to rotate it.
Example
He birled the log in the water, making it spin like a top.
Tense Forms
Past: birled
Past Participle: birled
Conversation
Have you ever seen someone birl a log in the water?
No, I haven't! What does that even look like?
It's pretty cool; they spin it around really fast with their feet.
Root Explanation
The word 'birl' originates from Scottish English, meaning to spin or whirl. It is often used in the context of spinning a top or similar object.
Memory Tip
Think of something that 'spins' or 'whirls' — that's what 'birl' means.
Visually Confused Words
birsle
bioral