Cyclone
SY-klohn
/ˈsaɪkloʊn/
A large-scale air mass that rotates around a strong center of low atmospheric pressure, characterized by inward-spiraling winds.
In the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, these are called hurricanes; in the Northwest Pacific, typhoons; elsewhere, cyclones.
The story behind the word. The word 'cyclone' was coined in 1848 by Henry Piddington, a British sea captain and meteorologist. He derived it from the Greek word 'kyklos', meaning 'circle' or 'wheel', to describe the circular, coiling motion of these massive storms, particularly those in the Bay of Bengal. He felt it aptly conveyed the 'coiling of a snake'.
Word relationships
- hurricane: A tropical cyclone occurring in the Atlantic Ocean or Northeast Pacific Ocean.
- typhoon: A tropical cyclone occurring in the Northwest Pacific Ocean.
- tornado: A violently rotating column of air, much smaller and more intense than a cyclone.
Commonly confused with
- Anticyclone: An anticyclone is a high-pressure system with outward-spiraling winds, typically associated with clear, stable weather.
Word family
- cyclonic (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of a cyclone.
Collocations
- tropical cyclone
- powerful cyclone
- form a cyclone
- cyclone season
Example sentences
- "The powerful cyclone made landfall on the coast, causing widespread destruction and flooding." A news report on a natural disaster.
- "The Coriolis effect plays a crucial role in the formation and rotation of a cyclone in both hemispheres." Explaining atmospheric physics.
Memory hook
Think of a 'CYCLE' (circle) of wind spinning around and around, like a cyclone. Circle of wind
When not to use
Do not use 'cyclone' as a generic term for any strong storm; it refers specifically to a rotating low-pressure system.
Fun facts
- Tropical cyclones are fueled by warm ocean waters and lose strength rapidly over land.
- The 'eye' of a cyclone is a calm, clear area at its center, surrounded by the most intense winds.
Related words
Explore more words
hurricane, tropical, meteorology, troposphere, tide, microclimate
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