tailspin
Translation
tailspin, nosedive, state of chaos
Examples
The plane went into a tailspin.
The plane went into a tailspin.
The company is in a financial tailspin.
The company is in a financial tailspin.
Grammar Patterns
((to go/be)) in(to) a tailspin to enter or be in a state of chaos The company went into a tailspin.
Similar Words
Synonyms: nosedive, downward spiral, chaos; Antonyms: stability, recovery
Etymology
From 'tail' (of an aircraft) + 'spin'. Originally an aeronautical term for when a plane's tail spins uncontrollably.
Memory Tips
Picture a plane's tail spinning out of control, causing it to fall. Apply this image of chaos and rapid decline to a situation.