Vertiginous: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used in formal or literary contexts to describe something extremely high or steep, which makes you feel dizzy. It can also refer to a sensation that causes dizziness.

• The vertiginous cliffs loomed over the crashing waves below.
• Looking down from the vertiginous heights made him feel queasy.

Commonly used in everyday language to describe a feeling of lightheadedness or the sensation that one's surroundings are spinning. It can be used to describe both physical sensations and overwhelmed emotional states.

• After spinning around in circles, she felt dizzy and had to sit down.
• The excitement of the fair left the children feeling dizzy.

Used to describe the sensation that everything around you is rotating. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a state of confusion or overwhelm.

• He felt as if the room were spinning after his second glass of wine.
• With so much information to process at once, her head was spinning.

This word is used to describe a lack of stability or balance, either physically or emotionally. It often indicates a temporary or uncertain condition.

• She took unsteady steps toward the exit, still recovering from the anesthesia.
• His voice was unsteady as he tried to present his case.

Used to describe something that causes dizziness or is extremely steep and induces a feeling of vertigo. Often used in more formal or literary contexts.

• The vertiginous cliffs were both awe-inspiring and terrifying
• He felt a vertiginous sensation when looking down from the skyscraper

Used to describe fast, often chaotic spinning or rotating motion. Frequently used to talk about natural phenomena or intense activity.

• The leaves were whirling in the autumn wind
• His mind was whirling with questions

Describes rotational movement, commonly used in everyday language to talk about things that turn around a central point. Can also be used metaphorically to describe feeling dizzy or confused.

• The child was spinning around in circles until she got dizzy
• His head was spinning with all the information from the meeting

Often used to describe a graceful or playful spinning movement, typically used for people, objects like batons, or dance moves.

• The ballerina was twirling elegantly on the stage
• She couldn't stop twirling her hair while she waited