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quirt

American  
[kwurt] / kwɜrt /

noun

  1. a riding whip consisting of a short, stout stock and a lash of braided leather.


verb (used with object)

  1. to strike with a quirt.

quirt British  
/ kwɜːt /

noun

  1. a whip with a leather thong at one end

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

verb

  1. to strike with a quirt

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of quirt

1835–45, perhaps < Spanish cuerda cord

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

These barrel-shaped filter feeders have a protective rod running the length of their nerve cord while young, making them and other sea quirts our closest relatives among invertebrates.

From Scientific American

He slapped his quirt on his leg and we all ran.

From Literature

“Glenda said I ought to do this full-time,” he said, gesturing to several quirts drying on a rack by the door.

From Washington Times

He ran from the place, leaving his suitcase, leaving the quirt, leaving the oak box of money.

From Literature

The last ball quirts off Smith’s bum/pad and runs away to fine leg for four leg-byes.

From The Guardian