What does WHORL mean?

Whorl

Parts of Speech: Noun

Definitions:

• a pattern of spirals or concentric circles
• a single complete turn or twist in a spiral or coil
• a fingerprint pattern in which the ridges form circular or spiral lines

Pronunciations:

• US: /wɔrl/
• UK: /wɜːl/

Origin and Usage:

The word "whorl" originated in Middle English from the Old English word "hwyrl" meaning "a whirl or a turn." Its usage has expanded from its original meaning of a spiral or a turn to include the fingerprint pattern and the patterns found in plants and animals.

Synonyms:

• coil
• curl
• spiral
• twirl
• volute

Related Words:

• spool
• swirl
• twirl
• world
• wormy

Example Sentences:

• The shell of the snail had a beautiful whorl pattern.
• The whorl of hair on the top of his head was a distinctive feature.
• The detective examined the whorl on the suspects thumb to match it with the fingerprint found at the crime scene.