Phrase guide

give something a whirl

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To try, test or attempt.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, informal

Examples

  • If you've never tried a recumbent bicycle before, you're welcome to give it a whirl.
  • I don't know how to begin, but I'll give it a whirl, anyway.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: take for a spin

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

1 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Māori: karawhiu — An idiom for to try something