tornado
- A violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground, often visible as a funnel cloud and typically associated with severe weather conditions. nounThe tornado swept through the town, leaving a path of destruction in its wake.Meteorologists issued a warning as the tornado approached the densely populated area.
- A state of violent disturbance or commotion, often used metaphorically to describe a chaotic or tumultuous situation. nounHer emotions were like a tornado, swirling uncontrollably after the unexpected news.The office was a tornado of activity as the deadline approached.