Eddy

An eddy is a circular current of water, air, or smoke, moving in a direction different from the main flow. It is a swirling, localized movement, often formed by an obstruction in the flow or a change in direction. Eddies can be found in rivers, oceans, and the atmosphere. The phenomenon can also describe the motion of air or any fluid, such as dust or even thought patterns. It is a swirling, rotating body of fluid or air that forms when the flow of a liquid or gas is disturbed. The strength and duration of an eddy can vary greatly depending on the surrounding conditions.

Eddy meaning with examples

• The river's current flowed swiftly, but near the riverbank, an eddy formed, creating a calmer patch of water where ducks were often seen. The swirling pattern caught leaves and twigs, pulling them into a small, temporary whirlpool. This eddy, though small, illustrated the unpredictable nature of the flowing river.
• As the sailboat navigated the lake, it occasionally encountered an eddy, a sudden, swirling effect of the wind and water which affected the sails. This forced the sailor to adjust the boat's course and speed. These small eddies are commonplace near the shore or islands.
• Smoke billowed from the chimney and formed a large, swirling eddy in the clear, cold, and still morning air. This dark cloud, rising and twisting, created a beautiful display, slowly dissipating into the blue sky. The eddy provided a momentary contrast between darkness and light.
• During the storm, the airplane experienced several strong eddies of air. The turbulent air caused sudden movements of the aircraft. Pilots rely on instruments to navigate and avoid these eddies, maintaining a safe flight path through the storm's erratic conditions. The unpredictable nature of these eddies demands precise navigation.