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 of whirlpool

• 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

In addition to the exclusive top deck pool and solarium, MSC Yacht Club guests have access to a whirlpool at the Top 19 Solarium that is shared with MSC Aurea suite guests. —Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Mar. 2026

Guests can expect a thoughtful mix of culinary experiences, sweeping open decks with several pools and whirlpools, and a spa devoted to holistic well-being. —Susan B. Barnes, Southern Living, 12 Mar. 2026

The fitness center, complete with complimentary workout classes, is the ideal place to stay active on board, while the pools, whirlpools and spa provide ultimate relaxation. —Emma Kershaw, Forbes.com, 24 Feb. 2026

All concierge guests aboard the Treasure can enjoy access to the Concierge Lounge and a private sun deck, complete with whirlpools and a small wading pool. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1529, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing whirlpool

• whirlpool bath

Rhymes for whirlpool

• ampoule
• bascule
• carpool
• cesspool
• ferrule
• footstool
• guayule
• lobule
• misrule
• preschool
• pustule
• boule

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