Synonyms for

Whirlwind

Verb / ˈwɜ:ˌlwɪnd / / ˈhwɜ:ˌlwɪnd / Another word for whirlwind — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a strong, fast-moving column of air that moves quickly in a twisting and rotating motion

Synonyms & similar words

twister cyclone tornado vortex storm tempest gale hurricane typhoon squall blast breeze windstorm whirlpool eddy whirl swirl spin rotation circulation

Synonyms by register

Formal

vortex maelstrom tempest upheaval

Informal

blitz rush frenzy mad dash

Literary

tempestuous gust raging gale stormy blast

Antonyms

calm stillness tranquility peace quiet serenity placidness

Common collocations

  • a whirlwind romance
  • a whirlwind tour
  • in a whirlwind
  • a whirlwind of activity
  • a whirlwind of emotions
  • a whirlwind of change
  • caught in a whirlwind

Word family

noun whirlwind
verb whirl
adjective whirlwind

Usage note

While 'whirlwind' can refer to a literal rotating column of air, it is more commonly used metaphorically to describe a period of intense, rapid activity or emotion.

Example sentences

  1. The whirlwind knocked over the trash cans.
  2. We watched a whirlwind form in the distance.
  3. The children laughed as they ran through the whirlwind of leaves.
  4. The pilot had to fly around the whirlwind to avoid it.
  5. The storm chaser drove into the center of the whirlwind.

Quotes

  • Life is a whirlwind. Sometimes you get caught in it, sometimes you get swept away, but you must always keep moving forward. – Unknown
  • The whirlwind of life is a dance between heaven and earth, the beauty and the pain. – Bryant McGill
  • The whirlwind of change is an opportunity for growth and transformation. – Jack Canfield

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