maelstrom
Translation
whirlpool, turmoil, vortex, chaos
Examples
The ship was caught in a maelstrom.
The ship was caught in a maelstrom.
He was drawn into the maelstrom of politics.
He was drawn into the maelstrom of politics.
Grammar Patterns
a maelstrom ((of sth.)) a powerful whirlpool or a situation of confusion He was drawn into the maelstrom of politics.
Similar Words
Synonyms: whirlpool, vortex, turmoil, chaos
Etymology
From Dutch 'maelstroom', from 'malen' (to grind) + 'stroom' (stream), literally a 'grinding stream'.
Memory Tips
Picture a 'meal' being ground up in a powerful 'storm' of water.