whirlpool

noun

whirl·​pool ˈ(h)wər(-ə)l-ˌpül 

1

a

: a confused tumult and bustle : whirl

b

: a magnetic or impelling force by which something may be engulfed

refusing to be drawn into this whirlpool of intrigue

—A. D. White

2

a

: water moving rapidly in a circle so as to produce a depression in the center into which floating objects may be drawn : eddy, vortex

b

: whirlpool bath

Synonyms

• gulf
• maelstrom
• vortex

Examples of whirlpool in a Sentence

The swimmer was caught in a whirlpool and nearly drowned.

in The Odyssey, Ulysses is trapped between the six-headed monster Scylla and Charybdis, a deadly whirlpool that threatens to suck in his ship

Recent Examples on the Web

The five-bedroom house features a turret entrance to a grand foyer, geometric coffered ceilings, arched doorways, stained glass, formal living and dining rooms, entertainer's kitchen with breakfast nook, and primary suite with whirlpool tub. —The Week Staff, theweek, 17 Sep. 2024

From its expansive patio and whirlpool, enjoy breathtaking sights of Praying Monk, Pinnacle Peak, Four Peaks, and the stunning sunsets over the valley below. —Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 15 Sep. 2024

Some cruise-goers even paid $75,000 a week to stay in an exclusive three-story townhouse complete with private balconies, a whirlpool, a backyard and slides. —Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 11 Sep. 2024

Terrace Inn guests also have their own concierge and access to a private gym and whirlpool. —Paul Brady, Travel + Leisure, 21 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1529, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing whirlpool

• whirlpool bath

Kids Definition

whirlpool

noun

whirl·​pool ˈhwər(-ə)l-ˌpül 

ˈwər(-ə)l-

1

: water moving rapidly in a circle with a hollow in the center into which floating objects are drawn : eddy

2

: whirlpool bath

Medical Definition

whirlpool

noun

whirl·​pool ˈhwər(-ə)l-ˌpül, ˈwər(-ə)l- 

: whirlpool bath