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Meaning of tailspin

Source language: EnglishDictionary language: English

tailspin

noun

Definitions

  1. The rapid, uncontrollable descent of an aircraft in a steep spiral.

    Example: The loss of the third engine threw the plane into a tailspin.

  2. A severe mental or emotional collapse; emotional breakdown.

    Example: Just hours after leaving the institution, she suffered another tailspin.

  3. Any sharp, sustained, often uncontrollable descent or decline.

    Example: The present stock tailspin proves bankruptcy is imminent.

verb

Definitions

  1. Of an aircraft: to go into a rapid, uncontrollable descent in a steep spiral.

  2. To go into a sharp, sustained, often uncontrollable descent or decline.