cyclone

n. a large weather system where winds spin around a centre of low pressure.

n. a large-scale atmospheric system of winds rotating inward to an area of low atmospheric pressure.

“The weather map showed a massive cyclone moving across the ocean toward the coast.”

“Meteorologists tracked the development of the mid-latitude cyclone as it deepened over the Atlantic, bringing significant precipitation to the eastern seaboard.”

Technical

n. a violent tropical storm, especially one that happens in the Indian Ocean or South Pacific.

n. a regional term for a tropical cyclone occurring in the South Pacific or Indian Ocean, equivalent to a hurricane or typhoon.

“The islands were hit by a powerful cyclone that caused widespread flooding.”

“The regional disaster management office issued a red alert as the cyclone approached the coast of Queensland, predicting wind speeds exceeding two hundred kilometres per hour.”

n. a very strong wind or a spinning wind like a tornado.

n. a violent, small-scale atmospheric circulation such as a tornado or dust devil; also used loosely for any powerful wind.

“The old barn was knocked down by a sudden cyclone that ripped through the valley.”

“In local parlance, the residents often referred to the devastating twisters as cyclones, despite the technical distinction made by the national weather service.”

Informal · American English

v. to move or spin in a circle like a storm.

v. to move, whirl, or spiral in a manner characteristic of a cyclone or whirlwind.

“The dry leaves started to cyclone around the yard in the autumn wind.”

“Dust and debris began to cyclone through the deserted streets as the pressure dropped and the sky turned an ominous shade of green.”

Literary