Vortex and Vertigo Both Come From Turning
A vortex is a whirling mass of fluid. The Latin verb vertere, to turn, also gives English vertigo, versus, reverse and convert.
A vortex is a whirling mass of air or water spinning around a centre. Latin *vertere*, to turn, is one of the most productive roots in English: *vertigo*, the sensation of turning; *versus*, turned against; *reverse*, turned back; *convert*, turned around; *universe*, turned into one. A vortex is simply a turning thing, named plainly.
- A whirling mass. *A vortex of water.*
- A dangerous situation. *A vortex of debt.*
- Polar vortex — a large cold air circulation. *The polar vortex weakened.*
- Plural — vortices or vortexes. *Two vortices.*
- Vertigo — dizziness, from the same root. *He suffers from vertigo.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | vortex | A tight vortex. |
| Plural | vortices | Trailing vortices. |
| Alternative plural | vortexes | Also correct. |
| Latin | vertere | To turn. |
| Related | vertigo | Sudden vertigo. |
- A vortex formed behind the wingtip.Aerodynamics.
- The polar vortex brought a cold snap.Meteorology.
- Drawn into a vortex of litigation.Figurative.
The vertere family
- Vertigo — a turning sensation
- Versus — turned against
- Reverse — turned back
- Convert — turned around
- Universe — turned into one whole
Latin *vortex*, a variant of *vertex*, a whirl or eddy, from *vertere*, to turn. English took it in the 1650s.
What is the plural of vortex?
Vortices in technical writing, vortexes in ordinary use. Both are accepted.
Are vortex and vertex the same word?
They started as variants of one Latin word but have separated. A vertex is a highest point or a corner; a vortex is a whirl.