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whelk

noun (1)
\ ˈhwelk How to pronounce whelk (audio) , ˈwelk How to pronounce whelk (audio) , ˈwilk How to pronounce whelk (audio) \

Definition of whelk

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: any of numerous large marine snails (as of the genus Buccinum) especially : one (B. undatum) used as food in Europe

whelk

noun (2)
\ ˈhwelk How to pronounce whelk (audio) , ˈwelk How to pronounce whelk (audio) \

Definition of whelk (Entry 2 of 2)

: papule, pustule

Illustration of whelk

Illustration of whelk

Noun (1)

In the meaning defined above

First Known Use of whelk

Noun (1)

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for whelk

Noun (1)

Middle English welke, from Old English weoloc; akin to Middle Dutch willoc whelk and perhaps to Latin volvere to turn — more at voluble

Noun (2)

Middle English whelke, from Old English hwylca, from hwelian to suppurate

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More Definitions for whelk

whelk

noun
\ ˈhwelk How to pronounce whelk (audio) , ˈwelk\

Kids Definition of whelk

: a large sea snail that has a spiral shell and is sometimes used for food in Europe

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More from Merriam-Webster on whelk

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with whelk

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for whelk

Spanish Central: Translation of whelk

Nglish: Translation of whelk for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of whelk for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about whelk

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