twirl
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /twɜːrl/
KK: /twɜrl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To spin or rotate quickly in a circular motion.
Example
The dancer twirled gracefully across the stage.
Tense Forms
Past: twirled
Past Participle: twirled
Conversation
Did you see that dancer twirl on stage last night?
Yeah, it was amazing! She was so graceful.
I wish I could twirl like that without getting dizzy.
Practice makes perfect! You should give it a try.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
spin
whirl
rotate
Antonyms
still
halt
stop
noun
Definition
A quick spinning or twisting movement, often done for fun or as part of a dance.
Example
She did a twirl in her new dress, showing it off to her friends.
Conversation
Did you see that girl do a twirl on the dance floor?
Yeah, it was so graceful!
I wish I could do a twirl like that without falling over.
transitive verb
Definition
To spin or rotate something quickly in a circular motion.
Example
She twirled the ribbon around her finger.
Tense Forms
Past: twirled
Past Participle: twirled
Conversation
Did you see how she can twirl that baton?
Yeah, it looks so impressive!
I wish I could twirl like that; it seems so fun.
Root Explanation
Twirl originates from the Middle English 'twirlen', which is a frequentative form of 'twirlen' (to twist or turn), derived from the Old English 'twirlen', meaning to twist. The word describes the action of spinning or rotating something quickly.
Memory Tip
Imagine something that is 'twisting' quickly — that's what 'twirl' means.
Visually Confused Words
atwirl
wirl
tirl
untwirl
whirl
twilt
twill
tweil