Dictionary entry

Wisp

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Wisp (?), n. [OE. wisp, wips; probably akin to D. & G. wisch, Icel. visk, and perhaps to L. virga a twig, rod. Cf. Verge a rod, Whisk, n.]

1. A small bundle, as of straw or other like substance.

In a small basket, on a wisp of hay. Dryden.

2. A whisk, or small broom.

3. A Will-o'-the-wisp; an ignis fatuus.

The wisp that flickers where no foot can tread. Tennyson.