Cyclone: meaning, definitions and examples

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cyclone

 

[ˈsaɪ.kloʊn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

weather phenomenon

A cyclone is a large-scale air mass that rotates around a strong center of low atmospheric pressure. Cyclones can bring strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surges, causing significant damage to coastal areas.

Synonyms

hurricane, tropical storm, typhoon.

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Word Description / Examples
cyclone

In meteorology, 'cyclone' is a general term used to describe any large scale storm system with a warm core, which can include tropical storms or typhoons. It's more common in scientific or technical discussions.

  • The meteorologist explained how the cyclone developed over the Indian Ocean.
  • Cyclones can cause severe damage to coastal regions.
hurricane

Used specifically for tropical cyclones occurring in the North Atlantic, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, and the northeastern Pacific Ocean. It’s a common term in the United States and related regions.

  • Hurricane Katrina was one of the deadliest hurricanes to ever strike the United States.
  • Residents are preparing for the incoming hurricane.
typhoon

Used specifically for tropical cyclones occurring in the Northwest Pacific Ocean, particularly affecting East Asia, including countries like Japan, the Philippines, and China.

  • Typhoon Hagibis caused widespread damage in Japan last year.
  • The coastal city is often in the path of powerful typhoons.
tropical storm

Refers to a type of tropical cyclone that has wind speeds between approximately 39-73 mph (63-118 km/h). It's less intense than a hurricane or typhoon and used to indicate a specific strength of tropical weather systems.

  • The weather service has issued a tropical storm warning for the region.
  • Tropical Storm Emily caused minor flooding in coastal areas.

Examples of usage

  • The cyclone made landfall with wind speeds reaching up to 150 mph.
  • Authorities issued evacuation orders as the cyclone approached the coast.
Context #2 | Noun

vacuum cleaner brand

Cyclone is a popular brand of vacuum cleaners known for their powerful suction and efficient cleaning capabilities.

Synonyms

vacuum cleaner brand.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cyclone

This can refer to the specific proper noun form of the weather phenomenon, often used in headlines or as a name. It can also sometimes be used as a name for rides or in branding, though context makes this clear.

  • Cyclone Yasi caused significant damage when it made landfall
  • Have you been on the Cyclone rollercoaster at the amusement park?
vacuum cleaner brand

This phrase is used to refer to a brand of vacuum cleaners, particularly one that emphasizes strong suction capabilities, although suitable brand names should be substituted instead of this phrase in real usage.

  • I bought a new vacuum cleaner brand because my old one didn't pick up dirt well
  • There's a vacuum cleaner brand that promises cyclone technology for better performance

Examples of usage

  • I need to buy a new vacuum cleaner, I heard Cyclone is a good brand.
  • The Cyclone vacuum cleaner easily picks up pet hair and dust.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'cyclone' comes from the Greek word 'kyklon', which means 'moving in a circle'.
  • It was first used in the English language in the 19th century to describe these powerful storm systems.
  • Different regions have specific names for cyclones, such as hurricanes in the Atlantic and typhoons in the Northwest Pacific.

Science

  • Cyclones form over warm ocean waters and require moist air to develop, which is why they primarily occur in tropical regions.
  • These storm systems can lead to massive amounts of precipitation, causing flooding and landslides when they hit land.
  • The Coriolis effect, caused by the Earth's rotation, is essential in forming the cyclone's spinning motion.

Impact

  • Cyclones can have devastating effects, including loss of life, destruction of homes, and severe disruption of communities.
  • The wind speeds in a cyclone can reach up to 200 miles per hour, making them one of nature's strongest forces.
  • Efforts in meteorology focus on warning systems to prepare areas for approaching cyclones to minimize damage.

Culture

  • Movies and documentaries often dramatize cyclones, showcasing their beauty and danger, such as in 'Twister' and 'The Perfect Storm'.
  • Cyclones feature prominently in local folklore and myth, representing fear or deception in many coastal cultures.
  • Some regions celebrate their resilience against cyclones, creating festivals that honor community strength and recovery.

Preparedness

  • Emergency responders have developed plans specifically tailored to cyclone threats, emphasizing preparation and quick evacuation.
  • Community education on cyclone safety has become crucial in vulnerable regions to ensure families know how to stay safe.
  • Modern technology allows for satellite imagery to track cyclones, improving forecasting and response times dramatically.

Translations

Translations of the word "cyclone" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ciclone

🇮🇳 चक्रवात

🇩🇪 Zyklon

🇮🇩 siklon

🇺🇦 циклон

🇵🇱 cyklon

🇯🇵 サイクロン (saikuron)

🇫🇷 cyclone

🇪🇸 ciclón

🇹🇷 siklon

🇰🇷 사이클론 (saikeullon)

🇸🇦 إعصار (i'sar)

🇨🇿 cyklón

🇸🇰 cyklón

🇨🇳 气旋 (qìxuán)

🇸🇮 ciklon

🇮🇸 skýstrókur

🇰🇿 циклон

🇬🇪 ციკლონი (cik'loni)

🇦🇿 siklon

🇲🇽 ciclón

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,280, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.