# swirling

/ˈswɝɫɪŋ/ (US) · /swˈɜːlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/swirling
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

moving around quickly in a circle. You use this to describe things like wind, water, or smoke that don't stay still.

For teachers: moving in a twisting or spiralling pattern. Often used to describe fluid dynamics or atmospheric conditions; frequently appears in participial form before a noun.

## Examples

- The swirling wind blew the leaves across the yard.
- The pilot had difficulty landing the small plane due to the swirling clouds and heavy rain.
- The artist captured the chaotic energy of the storm by using thick, swirling brushstrokes that seemed to pull the viewer into the center of the canvas.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a participial adjective before a noun or after a linking verb like 'remain' or 'become'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.