Meaning
- to try something new.
- to make an attempt, frequently for the first time.
- to try something new even if you have never done it before.
Variants | Synonyms
Examples in Sentences
- The ski instructor told Sally to "give it a whirl" on the beginner's ski slope by following his exact moves.
- The man at the entrance to the new roller coaster at the park told the crowd to "give it a whirl" by forming the first line to get on this exhilarating ride.
- Even though Jill was intimidated by the high dive at the pool, the lifeguard on duty mentioned it would be worth it to "give it a whirl" by climbing up the ladder, then surprising the staff by performing a "cannon ball" that can splash the onlookers with water.
- I plan to "give it a whirl" tonight by driving around in my grandfather's favorite car, the Shelby Cobra.
Origin
While the phrase " giving it a whirl " can be similar to "giving it a go" or "giving it a try," the actual origins of it are quite interesting. Indeed, the first use of "give it a whirl" was in the middle to late 19th century. During the mid-Victorian era in America, the technique involving a woman in a long gown starting to whirl her dress on the dance floor with a specific movement was quite a spectacle. The revealing of a girl's ankles and lower legs was sure to attract more attention in the 1850s, as the culture started to become less strict as far as dancing and activities during a dance were concerned.
The phrase "give it a whirl" has evolved from the whirling of an actual dress to taking on an unfamiliar, daunting, or intimidating task. Indeed, it is a verb first and foremost. The phrase is meant to help initiate an action.
