adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle
turning around once
Describes a single, complete rotation or turning motion, often with と.
彼はくるりと向きを変えた。
He turned around once.
adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle
Indicates a sudden change in state or action, often with と.
彼の態度がくるりと変わった。
His attitude suddenly changed.
adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle
completely (wrapped); quickly (unwrapped)
Used with verbs like 包む or 開ける to describe wrapping or unwrapping in one swift motion.
プレゼントをくるりと包んだ。
I wrapped the present quickly.
adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle
beautifully round (eyes)
Describes eyes that are large and round, often with と.
彼女の目はくるりとしていた。
Her eyes were beautifully round.
noun
Abbreviation of くるり棒; a farming tool. Rare standalone use.
See also: くるり棒
昔の農家では、くるりを使って脱穀した。
In old farmhouses, they used a flail to thresh grain.
Similar onomatopoeic adverb for a quick turn or change, but くるり emphasizes a single, complete rotation or a more deliberate motion.
Onomatopoeic or mimetic word; the exact origin is uncertain.