To spin or rotate a log, especially in log-rolling competitions; to move with a spinning motion or turn rapidly.
Possibly from Scottish or dialect origins, though the exact etymology is debated. It may relate to 'birr' (to spin) or have Norse roots. The term became standardized in North American logging culture.
Log-rolling was a real sport in logging camps—workers would literally stand on floating logs and spin them with their feet, and 'birling' championships still happen! The word captures the playful danger of early lumberjack culture.
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