awhirl

[ uh-hwurl, uh-wurl ]

adjective

1. rotating rapidly; spinning; whirling (usually used predicatively):

   dancers awhirl to the strains of a lively waltz.

Word History and Origins

Origin of awhirl¹

First recorded in 1880–85; a- ¹ + whirl

Example Sentences

We all stood to the toast, I with my blood a-tingle and my brain awhirl, so that I scarce knew what I did.

From Project Gutenberg

Soon after this Bones came blithely up from the beach and across the parade-ground, his large pipe in his mouth, his cane awhirl.

From Project Gutenberg

I slept but little that night; my brain was awhirl with many thoughts.

From Project Gutenberg

While she waited, her wits awhirl, Joan mechanically pinned on her hat.

From Project Gutenberg

Somehow Hal got out of the room, his mind awhirl, to await her downstairs.

From Project Gutenberg