'Maelstrom' definitions:

Definition of 'maelstrom'

From: WordNet
noun
A powerful circular current of water (usually the result of conflicting tides) [syn: whirlpool, vortex, maelstrom]

Definition of 'Maelstrom'

From: GCIDE
  • Maelstrom \Mael"strom\, n. [Norw., a whirlpool.]
  • 1. A celebrated whirlpool on the coast of Norway. Hence: any large or powerful whirlpool.
  • Syn: whirlpool, vortex. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Also (Fig.) An uncontrollable agitated or confusedly disordered state or situation; as, a maelstrom of vice. [1913 Webster +PJC]