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noun

whirlpool

WURL-pool

Whirlpool (noun) means a powerful, swirling current of water that pulls objects toward its centre. Example: “The boat narrowly avoided the whirlpool near the rocks.”

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noun
1
A powerful, swirling current of water that pulls objects toward its centre.
"The boat narrowly avoided the whirlpool near the rocks."
2
A hot tub or jacuzzi with jets that create swirling water.
"The hotel spa has a whirlpool where guests can relax after their swim."

How to use whirlpool

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA spinning current of water, or, informally, a jacuzzi-style hot tub.

Common pairings
caught in a whirlpool whirlpool bath
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Word forms

whirlpooled past tense, whirlpools plural, whirlpools singular

Test yourself on “whirlpool” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

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The boat narrowly avoided the _____ near the rocks.

Etymology

A compound of whirl and pool, describing water that spins around itself instead of flowing straight.

Related words

Rhymes for whirlpool

See all rhymes for whirlpool →

Frequently asked questions

What does “whirlpool” mean?

The word “whirlpool” means a powerful, swirling current of water that pulls objects toward its centre. In plain terms, a spinning current of water, or, informally, a jacuzzi-style hot tub.

How do you pronounce “whirlpool”?

“Whirlpool” is pronounced WURL-pool (/ˈwɝlpul/ in IPA).

How do you use “whirlpool” in a sentence?

Here is “whirlpool” used in a sentence: “The boat narrowly avoided the whirlpool near the rocks.”

What part of speech is “whirlpool”?

“Whirlpool” is a noun.

How many meanings does “whirlpool” have?

“Whirlpool” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a powerful, swirling current of water that pulls objects toward its centre.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial