1. A powerful circular current of water (usually the result of conflicting tides)
   "The ship struggled to escape the deadly maelstrom";
   - whirlpool, vortex
    
2. A state of confusion, turbulence, or emotional agitation
   "The country was thrown into a maelstrom of political upheaval";
   - turmoil, tumult

Derived forms: maelstroms

Type of: current, stream

Encyclopedia: Maelstrom