whirly-wind
An Australian variant term for a 'willy-willy,' which is a small, localized dust devil or spinning column of air that picks up dust and debris as it moves across the ground.
Definitions
An Australian variant term for a 'willy-willy,' which is a small, localized dust devil or spinning column of air that picks up dust and debris as it moves across the ground. Typically seen on hot, dry days in the Australian outback and arid regions, willy-willies are usually harmless but visually dramatic. The term 'whirly-wind' is a more descriptive and less culturally specific alternative to the more common 'willy-willy,' and both terms are used in informal Australian English.
A whirly-wind spun across the red dirt road ahead of them, scattering leaves and grit.
Comments
(AU) A willy-willy.
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(Australia) A whirlwind, cyclone or tornado; a dust devil.
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(Scotland) a flattering deceiver.
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(Australia) A hot, dry, dusty wind of southern or central Australia.
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(Australia, colloquial, rare) A small-time confidence trickster or seller of trinkets.