whisk

whisk [hwisk, wisk]

n.

[ME wisk < ON visk, wisp, brush < IE * weisk- (< * weis-, supple twig, broom) > Ger wischen, to wipe]

1.

a) the act of brushing with a quick, light, sweeping motion

b) such a motion

2. a small bunch of straw, twigs, hair, etc. used for brushing

3. a kitchen utensil consisting of wire loops fixed in a handle, for whipping egg whites, cream, etc.

vt.

1. to move, remove, carry, brush (away, off, out, etc.) with a quick, sweeping motion [to whisk out a handkerchief, to whisk off crumbs]

2. to whip (egg whites, cream, etc.)

vi.

to move quickly, nimbly, or briskly