whirlwind
der Wirbelwind, die Wirbelwinde
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whirlwind
A strong vortex of air in which the air rotates rapidly around a vertical axis. A whirlwind can stir up dust, leaves, or other lightweight objects.
Ein Wirbelwind fegte über das trockene Feld und wirbelte den Staub hoch.
A whirlwind swept across the dry field and stirred up the dust.
whirlwind
A very lively, restless, or especially active person who is constantly on the move.
Der kleine Wirbelwind hielt die ganze Familie den ganzen Nachmittag auf Trab.
The little whirlwind kept the whole family on their toes all afternoon.
| gender | masculine der |
|---|---|
| plural | die Wirbelwinde |
| genitive | des Wirbelwindes |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | der Wirbelwind | die Wirbelwinde |
| accusative | den Wirbelwind | die Wirbelwinde |
| dative | dem Wirbelwind | den Wirbelwinden |
| genitive | des Wirbelwindes des Wirbelwinds | der Wirbelwinde |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
“Wirbelwind” is made up of “Wirbel” (whirl / vortex) and “Wind” (wind). The word originally describes wind moving in a swirling way; this also helps explain the figurative meaning for a very active person.
Wie ein Wirbelwind fegte sie durch die Wohnung und räumte alles auf.
Like a whirlwind, she swept through the apartment and tidied everything up.
When it means a vortex of air, “Wirbelwind” often appears with verbs such as “aufwirbeln” (to stir up), “fegen” (to sweep), or “entstehen” (to form). Dust, sand, leaves, or dry earth are often mentioned.
Der Wirbelwind wirbelte Sand auf und verschwand nach wenigen Sekunden wieder.
The whirlwind stirred up sand and disappeared again after a few seconds.
The figurative meaning can be recognized when “Wirbelwind” is associated with a person, especially a child. Expressions such as “ein kleiner Wirbelwind” (a little whirlwind) or “ein echter Wirbelwind” (a real whirlwind) usually indicate this meaning.
Unsere dreijährige Tochter ist ein echter Wirbelwind und entdeckt den ganzen Tag etwas Neues.
Our three-year-old daughter is a real whirlwind and discovers something new all day long.
