vortex

n. (pl. -texes or -tices) 1 whirlpool, whirlwind. 2 whirling motion or mass. 3 thing viewed as destructive or devouring (the vortex of society).  vortical adj. [latin: related to *vertex]

n. A mass of fluid, especially of a liquid, having a whirling or circular motion tending to form a cavity or vacuum in the center of the circle, and to draw in towards the center bodies subject to its action; the form assumed by a fluid in such motion; a whirlpool; an eddy.