Meaning & use

vortex

noun·Advanced

A mass of spinning air, water, or other fluid that pulls objects toward its center.

See it in a sentence

Water spiraled into a vortex as it drained quickly from the bathtub.

The pilot steered away from the storm's vortex to avoid the violent winds.

A note on using this word

Vortex is also used figuratively for a situation that draws people in and is hard to escape, like a vortex of debt.

Words with a similar meaning

whirlpoolwhirlwind

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

A situation or emotional state that overwhelms and is difficult to escape.

Arguing over money pulled the couple into a vortex of blame and resentment.

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