Vortex: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a powerful spinning motion of fluid, air, or any other substance. Often metaphorical to describe chaotic situations.

• The boats were caught in a vortex of swirling water
• She found herself in a vortex of conflicting emotions

Generally used to describe a circular pattern of water, often more intense and dangerous than an eddy but less intense than a maelstrom. It can also be used metaphorically to describe being caught in difficult situations.

• The swimmers were warned to stay away from the whirlpool
• She felt herself being dragged into a whirlpool of debt

Describes a very powerful and often dangerous whirlpool, sometimes used metaphorically to indicate extremely chaotic or turbulent situations. It has a stronger and more violent connotation.

• The ship was sucked into the maelstrom and nearly capsized
• He found himself in the maelstrom of the political scandal

Refers to a smaller whirlpool-like motion of water or air, usually on the periphery of a main current. Commonly used to describe calmer, smaller, or secondary circular motions.

• Leaves floated lazily in the eddy by the riverbank
• The canoe was pushed gently by the eddy currents

Used to describe a situation or feeling that seems to be spiraling out of control or an actual swirling mass of fluid or air.

• The boat was pulled into a vortex in the river
• He felt like he was being sucked into a vortex of emotions

Used to describe something happening quickly and with great energy, or a small rotating column of air.

• They had a whirlwind romance and got married within months
• The wind picked up, creating a small whirlwind of leaves

Refers specifically to a large-scale air mass rotating around a strong center of low atmospheric pressure, often used when discussing weather phenomena.

• The cyclone caused severe damage to the coastal towns
• Cyclone warnings have been issued for the region

Generally used to describe something that winds around in a continuous and gradually widening (or tightening) curve, physically or metaphorically.

• The staircase spirals up to the top floor
• Her mood spiraled downward after the news

Use when referring to a powerful, spiraling motion, often in nature, like water or air. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation that pulls everything into it.

• The boat was caught in a dangerous vortex.
• She felt like she was being drawn into an emotional vortex.

Use to describe a fast, often chaotic, spinning motion. It can apply to both physical objects and experiences or feelings that seem to 'whirl' around.

• The leaves began to whirl in the autumn wind.
• His mind was in a whirl after hearing the news.

Use to depict a gentle or graceful circular motion. It can refer to physical phenomena like liquid or smoke, or to abstract concepts like thoughts or rumors.

• The coffee had a beautiful swirl of cream.
• Her thoughts began to swirl as she tried to sleep.

Use to describe a rapid turning movement, often with an axis. This can refer to objects, like a spinning top, or more abstract ideas like a 'spin' on a story.

• The dancer performed a perfect spin.
• The politician put a positive spin on the situation.