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

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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 Shortly after Rodrigo released her new album’s lead single, the pop star found herself at the center of a media maelstrom. — Chelsey Sanchez, CNN Money, 25 June 2026 But back in 2022, leading up to and following the release of Don't Worry Darling, her second feature in the director's chair, Wilde couldn't make it through a single media engagement without being buffeted by gusts from a maelstrom of rumors and gossip consuming her life. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 24 June 2026 In the maelstrom that is the World Cup in Kansas City, other monumental moments — even for monuments — can sometimes get lost. — Eric Adler june 24, Kansas City Star, 24 June 2026 The Pride Night maelstrom arrived just weeks after West Sacramento launched its bid for an MLB expansion team on May 28. — Reeti Malhotra, Sacbee.com, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for maelstrom
Recent Examples of Synonyms for maelstrom
vortex
Noun
  • On October 6 the gyre absorbed a smaller vortex from the Pacific over Central America.
    — Laura Payne, Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 July 2026
  • In the silence of January, before the vortex was raging, Tarik Skubal realized something in his elbow did not feel right.
    — Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 22 July 2026
Definition of vortex

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Cite this Entry

“Maelstrom.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/maelstrom. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on maelstrom

Nglish: Translation of maelstrom for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about maelstrom

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