# vortex

/ˈvɔɹtɛks/ (US) · /vˈɔːtɛks/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vortex
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. spinning fluid or air

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a mass of air or water that spins very fast and pulls things toward its center.

For teachers: a mass of fluid or air with a whirling or circular motion that tends to form a vacuum in the center.

- The water drained out of the bathtub, creating a small vortex over the hole.
- Aerodynamicists study the wingtip vortex because the resulting turbulence can significantly impact the fuel efficiency of following aircraft.

### 3. to mix rapidly

verb · CEFR C2 · Technical

to mix a liquid very quickly using a special machine that creates a spinning motion.

For teachers: to agitate a liquid sample using a vortex mixer to ensure thorough blending.

- The scientist had to vortex the tube for ten seconds to mix the chemicals.
- After adding the reagent, the technician must vortex each vial individually to ensure the suspension is completely homogeneous before analysis.

## Examples

- The water formed a small vortex as it went down the drain.
- The pilot had to navigate carefully to avoid the powerful air vortex created by the larger jet taking off ahead of him.
- The politician found himself trapped in a vortex of scandal and conflicting reports, unable to steer the public conversation back to his original policy goals.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.