whirring wings

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "whirring wings" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the sound or motion of wings, typically in the context of birds or insects in flight. Example: "As the hummingbird approached the flower, the whirring wings created a soft, melodic sound that filled the air."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

A covey of partridges, lying low in the forest of fumitory until the last possible moment, rose from around our feet with an exhilarating explosion of whirring wings, sending our pulses racing.

The Guardian

If you have never heard the lilting song of the linnet, spotted the distinctive plumage of a goldcrest, or waited for the whirring wings of a grey partridge, it is increasingly unlikely that you ever will.

The Guardian

Jacamars sit, with the long, sharp bill tilted up, in trees along forest streams, then dash on whirring wings after a butterfly or dragonfly, which they catch with an audible snap of the bill and pound on the perch before eating.

Britannica

Now westlin winds and slaught'ring guns Bring Autumn's pleasant weather; The moorcock springs on whirring wings, Amang the blooming heather: Now waving grain, wide o'er the plain, Delights the weary farmer; And the moon shines bright, as I rove at night, To muse upon my charmer.

The Guardian - Books

Big, many-banded females whirred from flower to flower, and one plump black-bodied bee poised on whirring wings above the gorse, and as it contemplated each blossom protruded a long flexible tongue and dived under the golden lips; its thighs were orange with pollen.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The flight is distinctive; it consists of whirring wing-beats with occasional sudden changes of direction.

Wikipedia

He shuffled the cards, producing a sound of whirring insect wings.

The Guardian - Books

A female garden cross spider had just snared a honeybee (an unusual prey at Blackwater, although wasps are commonplace) and while the victim whirred its wings or pulsed its abdomen to break free, the web yawed but held true.

The Guardian

Catching one doing so would be a highlight - listen out for whirring sound their wings make.

The Guardian

I heard its wings whirring as it flew away, but turned in the wrong direction, just as I heard Tim confirm its identity.

The Guardian

A dew drop becomes "the tiny egg of a mythical bird", a young lad rides his tricycle "his legs whirring like bees' wings".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "whirring wings" to evoke a sense of rapid, continuous motion and the accompanying sound, especially when describing birds taking flight or insects hovering.

Common error

Avoid using "whirring wings" to describe wings that are not in motion or producing a distinct sound. This phrase specifically implies active, rapid movement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "whirring wings" primarily functions as a descriptive noun phrase, often serving as an adjective modifying a noun (e.g., "the moorcock springs on whirring wings"). It evokes a specific auditory and visual image of rapid wing movement, and Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "whirring wings" is a descriptive noun phrase that evokes the sound and motion of rapidly moving wings, primarily those of birds and insects. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media, followed by academic contexts, often used to add vivid imagery to descriptions. Related phrases include "buzzing wings" and "fluttering wings", each offering slightly different nuances. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to use it in contexts where rapid wing movement is actually occurring. Its infrequent occurrence suggests it's not an everyday phrase, but when used appropriately, it adds a distinct sensory dimension to writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

buzzing wings

Focuses on the buzzing sound produced by rapid wing movement, typically associated with insects.

fluttering wings

Emphasizes the quick, light movement of wings, suggesting a delicate and rapid motion.

humming wings

Suggests a low, continuous sound produced by rapidly moving wings, often associated with hummingbirds.

beating wings

Highlights the rhythmic motion of wings, suitable for describing sustained flight.

flapping wings

Describes the broad, up-and-down movement of wings, often indicating effort or exertion.

vibrating wings

Focuses on the rapid oscillation of wings, highlighting the speed and intensity of the movement.

rapid wingbeats

Emphasizes the speed and frequency of wing movements, suitable for scientific or technical contexts.

thrashing wings

Implies a forceful, agitated movement of wings, often in a struggle or panic.

windmilling wings

Suggests a circular, rotating motion of wings, typically used metaphorically.

oscillating wings

Describes a regular back-and-forth movement of wings, emphasizing the rhythmic nature of the motion.

FAQs

How can I describe a similar sound to "whirring wings"?

You can use phrases like "buzzing wings", "humming wings", or "fluttering wings" depending on the specific sound and context. For instance, "buzzing wings" might be more suitable for insects, while "humming wings" often describes hummingbirds.

What kind of birds are known for the sound of "whirring wings"?

Birds like partridges and some ground-dwelling birds are known to produce a whirring sound when they quickly take flight. The sound is created by the rapid flapping of their wings.

Is it appropriate to use "whirring wings" metaphorically?

While primarily used to describe the literal sound of wings, "whirring" can be used metaphorically to describe something moving rapidly or creating a similar continuous, buzzing sound. However, consider the context carefully.

What is the difference between "whirring wings" and "flapping wings"?

"Whirring wings" suggests a rapid, continuous buzzing sound, while "flapping wings" implies a broader, more distinct up-and-down motion. The former often indicates speed and agility, while the latter can suggest effort or struggle.