English Lexicon

Whirr

/wɜːr/
verbnounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As verb
  1. 1

    To make a low, continuous, rapid sound, often associated with machinery or insects.

    "The drone whirred as it took off into the sky."
As noun
  1. 1

    A low, continuous sound made by something in motion, especially machinery.

    "The whirr of the fan provided a soothing background noise."

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Synonyms (3)
Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'whirr' originates from the late Middle English 'whirren', which is imitative in nature, suggesting a sound made by rapid motion. It has evolved to describe the sound produced by machinery or insects, reflecting its onomatopoeic roots.

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