cyclone: Meaning and Definition of

cy•clone

1. a large-scale, atmospheric wind-and-pressure system characterized by low pressure at its center and by circular wind motion, counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere, clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. Cf. anticyclone, extratropical cyclone, tropical cyclone.
2. (not in technical use) tornado.
3. Also calleda device for removing small or powdered solids from air, water, or other gases or liquids by centrifugal force.