Definition

Noun: 1. A revolving mechanism: A device or apparatus that spins or rotates, often at high speed. 2. A dervish whose actions include ecstatic dancing and whirling: A member of a Sufi Muslim ascetic order, specifically a Mawlawi dervish, known for performing a ritual dance (sema) involving spinning as a form of active meditation and worship.

Usage and Examples

• As a revolving mechanism:
  • The laboratory used a high-speed whirler to separate the components of the solution.
  • The old machine contained a complex system of gears and whirlers.
• As a type of dervish:
  • The whirler entered a trance-like state as he spun in his white robes.
  • The ceremony featured a group of whirlers performing their sacred dance.

Advanced Usage

• The term is highly specific. In modern technical contexts, more common words like "rotor," "spinner," or "centrifuge" are often used instead of "whirler." When referring to the dervish, the capitalized form "Whirling Dervish" is the most widely recognized term.

Variants and Related Words

• Whirl (verb): To spin or rotate rapidly.
• Whirling (adjective/noun): The act of spinning; characterized by rapid rotation (e.g., blades, the dance).
• Whirligig (noun): A toy that spins; something that constantly changes or is in constant motion.

Synonyms

• For the mechanism: rotor, spinner, gyrator, revolver.
• For the dervish: Whirling Dervish, spinning dervish, Mawlawi dervish.

Notes on Meaning

The two meanings of "whirler" are distinct and relate to the core action of spinning. The first is a generic mechanical term, while the second is a specific religious/cultural term derived from the characteristic practice of the dervishes. Context is essential to determine which meaning is intended.

Noun

1. a revolving mechanism
2. a dervish whose actions include ecstatic dancing and whirling