Merriam-Webster's Collegiate® Dictionary, 11th Edition
WHISK
I. noun
Etymology: Middle English wisk, probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse visk wisp; akin to Old English wiscian to plait
Date: 14th century
a quick light brushing or whipping motion,
2. a usually wire kitchen utensil used for beating food by hand, a flexible bunch (as of twigs, feathers, or straw) attached to a handle for use as a brush,
II. verb
Date: 15th century
intransitive verb to move nimbly and quickly, transitive verb to move or convey briskly , to mix or fluff up by or as if by beating with a whisk , to brush or wipe off lightly