Emily Dickinson Lexicon

WHIRL, n. [G. wirbel; Dan. hvirvel.]

1. A turning with rapidity or velocity; rapid rotation or circumvolution; quick gyration; as, the whirl of a top; the whirl of a wheel; the whirl of time; the whirls of fancy. – Creech. Pope.
2. Any thing that moves or is turned with velocity, particularly on an axis or pivot.
3. A hook used in twisting.
4. In botany, a species of inflorescence, consisting of many subsessile flowers surrounding the stem in a ring. It is also written whorl and wherl. – Martyn.
5. In conchology, each volution of a turreted shell.