Meaning & Definition of word "Wisp"

Wisp

/wɪsp/

noun:

  • 1. A small, thin, or delicate piece or amount of something, such as a wisp of smoke or a wisp of hair.
    • Example: A wisp of smoke curled up from the campfire.
  • 2. A slight, fragile, or ethereal quality or presence.
    • Example: There was a wisp of sadness in her voice as she spoke.
  • 3. A small bundle, especially of straw or hay.
    • Example: He picked up a wisp of hay and tossed it to the animals.

verb:

  • 1. To move or blow away in a thin or delicate manner.
    • Example: The breeze began to wisp the leaves away from the path.

Etymology

Middle English wisp, from Old Norse virsta (to twist).

Common Phrases and Expressions

wisp of smoke:

A thin stream of smoke.

wisp of hair:

A small, loose piece of hair.

Related Words

twist:

To turn or curl something.

strand:

A single thin piece of something, especially hair or thread.

Slang Meanings of wisp

Meaning: A very thin or delicate person.

Example Sentence: She's such a wisp; she needs to eat more.

Meaning: An indication of something that is barely noticeable.

Example Sentence: I saw a wisp of a chance to succeed in this project.