Whorl

A whorl is a spiral or circular arrangement of something around a central point. It's most commonly used to describe the patterns found in nature, such as the arrangement of leaves on a stem, the ridges on a fingerprint, or the shell of a snail. The term emphasizes the repeating, often concentric, pattern that spirals outwards from a core. In a broader sense, it can also describe any circular or spiral formation in art, architecture, or even abstract concepts. The key aspect is the recurring, layered structure.

Whorl meaning with examples

• The botanist carefully examined the plant's stem, noting the precise whorl of leaves around it, which helped her identify its species. She documented the precise arrangement and spacing for her field notes, and determined that the pattern was a key identifier in this specimen.
• The fingerprint expert studied the whorls on the evidence, meticulously comparing the ridges to identify the suspect. Each whorl of the fingerprint offered a distinct, unique pattern that allowed for a positive identification when compared with known prints from the suspect.
• The ancient pottery's design incorporated an intricate whorl pattern, suggesting the artist's skill and understanding of form. The repeated curves created a mesmerizing visual effect, hinting at an aesthetic sensibility that has survived for centuries.
• The hurricane's winds formed a terrifying whorl above the ocean, causing significant destruction as it gained power. The swirling mass of clouds and wind was a stark example of nature's raw energy, as shown on weather radars.
• The pastry chef garnished the cake with a delicate swirl of frosting, creating an elegant whorl. Her hand created the graceful design with practiced movements, an example of art and dessert coming together.
• The architect incorporated a series of spiraling staircases that resembled intricate whorls. The spiral arrangement saved space and was a stunning design element, creating a sense of continuous motion.
• The dancers gracefully moved in unison, creating a mesmerizing whorl. They moved together, and their formations mimicked each other to create a stunning piece of art.
• The conch shell's smooth exterior displayed a perfect whorl of chambers, a testament to the elegance of natural geometry. The chambers in the shell were perfect, creating a perfect design.