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maelstrom

noun

/ˈmeɪlstrəm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of maelstrom

A chaotic and turbulent situation, characterized by confusion, disorder, and often violence.
"The stock market was in a maelstrom of turmoil as investors reacted to the latest news."

Detailed meaning of maelstrom

This word is often used to describe a powerful and overwhelming force, such as a natural disaster, a battle, or a large-scale event that creates chaos and upheaval. In a maelstrom, everything is in a state of flux and change, with competing forces battling for control and creating a sense of whirlwind activity. The maelstrom can also describe an internal state of being, such as when someone is caught in a whirlwind of emotions or thoughts. In all cases, the maelstrom is a powerful and overwhelming force that creates a sense of disorientation and confusion, making it difficult to maintain control or find stability.

Example sentences containing maelstrom

1. The ship was trapped in a swirling maelstrom of waves and foam.
2. His sudden resignation created a political maelstrom in the party.
3. The financial crisis caused a maelstrom of panic in the stock market.
4. The tornado's destructive force turned the town into a maelstrom of debris.
5. The breakup led to a maelstrom of emotions, leaving both in turmoil.
6. The controversial decision unleashed a maelstrom of public outrage.

History and etymology of maelstrom

The noun 'maelstrom' has its origins in the Dutch word 'maalstroom,' which means 'whirlpool' or 'turbulent water.' It entered the English language in the 17th century. 'Maelstrom' is used metaphorically to describe a chaotic and turbulent situation, characterized by confusion, disorder, and often violence. The etymology of 'maelstrom' effectively conveys the idea of being caught in a powerful and destructive vortex, much like the dangerous whirlpools found at sea. Whether used to describe a political maelstrom, a financial maelstrom, or a social maelstrom, this term underscores the concept of a situation marked by extreme turmoil and disorder, where it can be challenging to maintain a sense of control or order.

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Further usage examples of maelstrom

1. The volcano's eruption created a maelstrom of ash and smoke.
2. The courtroom was a maelstrom of arguments and objections.
3. The protest turned into a maelstrom of chants and placard waving.
4. The battle raged on, turning the battlefield into a maelstrom of chaos.
5. The paparazzi created a maelstrom around the celebrity's arrival.
6. The novel's climax was a maelstrom of suspense and tension.
7. The political scandal ignited a maelstrom of media coverage.
8. The dance floor was a maelstrom of music and energetic moves.
9. The unexpected revelation caused a maelstrom of gossip in the office.
10. The traffic jam turned the freeway into a maelstrom of honking horns.
11. The hurricane's fury turned the coastal town into a maelstrom of destruction.
12. The discovery of treasure led to a maelstrom of excitement among treasure hunters.
13. The city's rush hour traffic is often a maelstrom of congestion and frustration.
14. The emergency room was a maelstrom of activity as medical staff rushed to help.
15. The heated argument escalated into a maelstrom of shouting and accusations.
16. The crowded mall during the holiday season is a maelstrom of shoppers.
17. The wildfire's rapid spread turned the forest into a maelstrom of flames.
18. The breakup was a maelstrom of tears, anger, and heartache.
19. The music festival became a maelstrom of music, art, and culture.