1. a mechanism in a mechanical watch or clock that rotates the escapement and balance wheel to counteract the effects of gravity
Usage: horology
2. a whirlwind or whirlpool
Usage: literary

Examples

• The luxury watch featured a visible tourbillon that mesmerized collectors.
• Swiss watchmakers perfected the tourbillon mechanism in the 18th century.
• The tourbillon rotates once per minute to improve timekeeping accuracy.
• High-end timepieces often showcase their tourbillon through an open dial.
• The poet described the storm as a tourbillon of wind and rain.
• Leaves swirled in a tourbillon around the courtyard.