whirlpool

noun

ˈ(h)wər(-ə)l-ˌpül How to pronounce whirlpool (audio)
Definition of whirlpoolnext
as in vortex
water moving rapidly in a circle with a hollow in the center in The Odyssey, Ulysses is trapped between the six-headed monster Scylla and Charybdis, a deadly whirlpool that threatens to suck in his ship

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of whirlpool What to read next The Milky Way disc is the circular flowing whirlpool-like structure, where most of our galaxy's stars, including our own sun, are located. — Julian Dossett, Space.com, 27 May 2026 Ancient notions, dating back to Ptolemy, claimed that Africa was surrounded by boiling seas filled with giant creatures, whirlpools, and perpetual darkness. — David A. Graham, The Atlantic, 2 June 2026 The infamous cyclops briefly appeared, as well as footage of Odysseus and his men battling the cannibalistic race of giants known as Laestrygonians and navigating around the treacherous whirlpool Charybdis. — Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 1 July 2026 Still Waters Resort, Branson Spacious condos with giant whirlpools and stylish furnishings sparkle at this Table Rock Lake resort west of Branson, but the real attraction is fun on the water. — Jess Hoffert, Midwest Living, 9 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for whirlpool
Recent Examples of Synonyms for whirlpool
vortex
Noun
  • The shape of Shinnecock spins you in a vortex, with crosswinds galore.
    — Gabby Herzig, New York Times, 16 June 2026
  • Ash vortices form because of intense heat associated with lava flows or vents.
    — Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 15 June 2026
Definition of vortex

Browse Nearby Words

whirling
whirlpool
whirlpools
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Cite this Entry

“Whirlpool.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/whirlpool. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on whirlpool

Nglish: Translation of whirlpool for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about whirlpool

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