Synonyms of tailspin

tailspin

noun

ˈtāl-ˌspin 

as in breakdown

a mental or nervous collapse

the pressures of his job nearly caused him to go into a tailspin

Synonyms & Similar Words

• breakdown
• nervous breakdown
• disturbance
• crack-up
• anxiety
• meltdown
• freak-out
• excitability
• nervousness
• agitation
• disquiet
• perturbation
• alarm
• frazzle
• apprehension
• basket case
• discomposure

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• composure
• calmness
• serenity
• coolness
• tranquility
• aplomb
• placidity
• imperturbability
• tranquilness
• sereneness
• self-possession

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of tailspin

His distance from Henry was painfully emphasized when his son got in trouble for bullying another classmate, and the idea of Michelle (Andrea Anders) getting engaged to someone else sent him into a tailspin. — Rachel Labonte, Entertainment Weekly, 5 Aug. 2026

But a trip to New York City sent Riley back into a tailspin, an alarming and frustrating three games at the plate for the 31-year-old. — Tyler Estep, AJC.com, 31 July 2026

Though just 37 words, the 2024 change sent the office into a tailspin that led to new leadership, a staff exodus and a backlog. — Cate Charron, IndyStar, 24 July 2026

Of course, the collection sold out within minutes of dropping, sending shoppers into a tailspin. — Gina Vaynshteyn, StyleCaster, 17 July 2026