Whir

To move or cause to move rapidly with a buzzing, humming, or vibrating sound. This sound is often continuous and repetitive, caused by the rapid rotation of a mechanical part or the rapid movement of something through the air. The sound can vary in intensity and pitch, ranging from a faint whisper to a loud, insistent noise. It frequently suggests speed, activity, and a sense of mechanical or natural processes in motion. This describes a type of sound and/or the action creating it.

Whir meaning with examples

• The old ceiling fan began to whir as it spun to life, a familiar sound in the quiet room. Dust motes danced in the sunlight caught by the blades. I knew a cool breeze was coming. After the sound, I could feel it.
• The tiny motor of the toy car started to whir with great excitement when I switched it on. The sound filled the kids with glee as it began to move, a tiny blur across the floor. It created a sense of childish adventure.
• As the helicopter ascended, the blades began to whir faster, the sound growing steadily. The wind filled the whole area. The passengers, now anxious for the safety of flight, prepared for their journey into the sky.
• The gears inside the grandfather clock whir in time to the swaying pendulum. The sound was a reminder of time's unrelenting passage, echoing down from the halls of memory. This was the sound of patience.
• He held a small insect, and as it tried to break free it began to whir with great energy. Its wings beat against his palm. After a while the energy in his hand became to dwindle and fade.