Vortex, whirlpool (9)
I believe the answer is:
maelstrom
I believe this is a double definition.
'vortex' is the first definition.
(I know that vortex can be written as maelstrom)
'whirlpool' is the second definition.
(I know that whirlpool can be written as maelstrom)
(Other definitions for maelstrom that I've seen before include "Whirlpool, turmoil" , "Confused situation" , "Major confusion" , "Norwegian whirlpool" , "confused state of affairs" .)