whirlwind

/ˌwʌrlˈwɪnd/

/ˌhwʌrlˈwɪnd/

/ˈwʌlwɪnd/

Other forms: whirlwinds

You can describe a tornado — a swirling vortex of air — as a powerful whirlwind, which is literally wind that whirls around in a narrow upright tube shape as it moves over the ground.

Some kinds of whirlwinds cause terrible destruction as they sweep across the Earth's surface, sucking cars and trees into the pull of their spinning funnels. People often use this word figuratively, like describing a hectic or fast-paced vacation as a "whirlwind tour." The word whirlwind itself is thought to be modeled on the Old Norse word hvirfilvindr.

Definitions of whirlwind

1. noun

   a more or less vertical column of air whirling around itself as it moves over the surface of the Earth
   types:

   dust devil

   a miniature whirlwind strong enough to whip dust and leaves and litter into the air

   type of:

   windstorm

   a storm consisting of violent winds
2. noun

   a confused movement or rush
   synonyms: commotion, whirl

   type of:

   motion, movement

   a natural event that involves a change in the position or location of something
3. adjective

   like a whirlwind, especially in speed or forcefulness