vortex
noun
A whirling mass of fluid or air that draws things toward its center; a situation or feeling that seems to swallow everything up.
Etymology
From Latin vortex, variant of vertex "whirlpool, eddy," from vertere "to turn."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The ship was caught in a powerful vortex and spun helplessly."
- 2.
"Social media can become a vortex that consumes hours of time."
- 3.
"The tornado's vortex stretched from the clouds to the ground."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Polar vortexes are large areas of low pressure and cold air surrounding Earth's poles. When the polar vortex weakens, it can send frigid Arctic air into lower latitudes, causing extreme cold snaps.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 6 letters (V, O, R, T, E, X)
Scrabble Value: 16 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "VORTEX" appears in many related words.
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