Crossword Genius

Doctor slam Torme's periods of turbulent confusion? (10)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

maelstroms

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'periods of turbulent confusion?' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I cannot see how one could define the other.

'doctor slam torme's' is the wordplay.
'doctor' is an anagram indicator.
'slam'+'tormes'='slamtormes'
'slamtormes' with letters rearranged gives 'MAELSTROMS'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for maelstroms that I've seen before include "Powerful whirlpools" , "dangerous, currently" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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