WHIPPING TOP Meaning and
Definition
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A whipping top refers to a traditional spinning toy that consists of a conical-shaped wooden or plastic structure with a pointed tip at the bottom. It typically measures a few inches in height and has a broad, flat surface at the top. The toy is designed in such a way that a string or cord, known as a whipcord, can be tightly wound around the top's middle section. The whipcord, which is often made of cotton or nylon, is then quickly pulled, causing the top to rapidly spin on its pointed tip.
When the whipcord is pulled with sufficient force, it unwinds rapidly, unravelling the top and initiating its spinning motion. The spinning motion creates a mesmerizing visual effect as the top rotates gracefully, defying gravity. Whipping tops are usually spun by children as a form of entertainment or can be used as a competitive game, where participants attempt to keep their tops spinning for the longest time.
The spinning action of a whipping top can be attributed to the principle of angular momentum. This principle states that an object that is already rotating tends to keep rotating with a constant speed unless acted upon by an external force. The whipcord, through its initial pulling force, imparts enough rotational energy to the top, allowing it to continue spinning until it gradually loses momentum due to external factors like friction or air resistance. Whipping tops can come in different colors, shapes, and sizes, and have been enjoyed by children and adults alike for generations, mainly due to their captivating spinning motion and simple yet engaging play mechanics.
Common Misspellings for WHIPPING TOP
- qhipping top
- ahipping top
- shipping top
- ehipping top
- 3hipping top
- 2hipping top
- wgipping top
- wbipping top
- wnipping top
- wjipping top
- wuipping top
- wyipping top
- whupping top
- whjpping top
- whkpping top
- whopping top
- wh9pping top
- wh8pping top
Etymology of WHIPPING TOP
The word "whipping top" is composed of two parts: "whipping" and "top".
The word "whipping" comes from the verb "whip", which has its roots in Old English "hwippen" and Middle English "whippen". It initially meant "to beat with a whip" or "to strike with a quick, strong, or sudden motion". Over time, the meaning of "whip" extended to include a rapid rotational action, as seen in the whipping motion of a top.
The word "top" has a long history and can be traced back to Old English "topp", which meant the highest part or the summit of something. It is related to the Middle Low German "top" and Dutch "top", which also have similar meanings.
When you combine "whipping" and "top", it refers to a toy that is rapidly spun with a whipping motion.
Similar spelling words for WHIPPING TOP
