Definition of cyclone

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cy·clone    (skln) KEY 

NOUN:

1. Meteorology
   1. An atmospheric system characterized by the rapid inward circulation of air masses about a low-pressure center, usually accompanied by stormy, often destructive weather. Cyclones circulate counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
   2. A violent tropical storm, especially one originating in the southwestern Pacific Ocean or Indian Ocean.
2. A violent rotating windstorm.
3. Any of various devices using centrifugal force to separate materials.

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ETYMOLOGY:
From Greek kukln, present participle of kukloun, to rotate, from kuklos, circle; see k^wel-¹ in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
cy·clonic  (-klnk) KEY  or cy·cloni·cal(Adjective)