maelstrom Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a powerful circular current of water (usually the result of conflicting tides)
    vortex; whirlpool.

WordNet


Mael"strom noun
Etymology
Norw., a whirlpool.
Definitions
  1. A celebrated whirlpool on the coast of Norway.
  2. Also Fig. ; as, a maelstrom of vice.

Webster 1913