maelstrom

noun

ˈmāl-strəm How to pronounce maelstrom (audio)
Definition of maelstromnext
as in vortex
water moving rapidly in a circle with a hollow in the center our rubber raft got caught in a maelstrom in a particularly rough stretch of white water

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 maelstrom In Jupiter’s Great Red Spot, smaller eddies and vortices near the perimeter feed the giant maelstrom in the center. — Stephen Ornes, Quanta Magazine, 2 Oct. 2026 Fall film festivals launch a panoply of rich film fare into the Oscar maelstrom. — Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 3 Sep. 2026 The gossamer thread holding the sacred feminine maelstrom together? — Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026 Two days later, Jack White intervened, inviting Temple to open one of his shows in September; their fourth album, Doomed Lovers, was announced amid the maelstrom. — Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for maelstrom
Recent Examples of Synonyms for maelstrom
vortex
Noun
  • Yet exposure to strong magnetic fields creates microscopic disruptions known as vortices.
    — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 29 Oct. 2026
  • Before guests enter the vortex, there will be an area featuring familiar, modern-day Halloween fun, including warm and cold beverages served by Carol’s Corner and sweet treats sold by Sugar Fairy Treats.
    — Gloria Casas, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of vortex

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Maecenases
maelstrom
maelstroms
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Cite this Entry

“Maelstrom.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/maelstrom. Accessed 13 Nov. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on maelstrom

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about maelstrom

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