What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eddy
Example
The river had many eddies where the water moved in a circular motion. [eddy: noun]
Example
The wind created eddying currents that made it difficult to steer the boat. [eddy: verb]
whirlpool
Example
The ship was pulled into the whirlpool and sank to the bottom of the ocean. [whirlpool: noun]
Example
The water was swirling around in a whirlpool, making it difficult to swim. [whirlpool: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Whirlpool is more commonly used than eddy in everyday language. Whirlpool is a more specific term that refers to a large and powerful circular movement of water, while eddy is a more general term that can refer to any circular movement of water or air.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between eddy and whirlpool?
Both eddy and whirlpool are formal words that are typically used in scientific or technical contexts, such as in discussions of fluid dynamics or oceanography.
