twizzle

1 of 2

verb

twiz·​zle

ˈtwizəl

-ed/-ing/-s

British

: spin, twirl

twizzle

2 of 2

noun

plural twizzles

figure skating

: a maneuver in which a skater performs rapid, continuous rotations on one foot while skating forward or backward over the ice

The presentation includes complicated spins, tricky footwork, lifts and "twizzles," which are vertical spins performed as the skater moves across the ice.

—M. Ferguson Tinsley, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, 5 Jan. 2006

Quite simply, their heartfelt performance and technical mastery over ice dancing's ever more difficult elements—the lifts and spins and twizzles—set the bar too high …

—Dan Barnes, Calgary Herald (Alberta, Canada), 23 Feb. 2010

Word History

Etymology

Verb

probably alteration of twistle entry 2

Noun

probably derivative of twizzle entry 1

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1975, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now