Pronunciation: [twˈɪstə] (IPA) 
The word "twister" is spelled with the letters T-W-I-S-T-E-R. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /ˈtwɪstər/. The first syllable, "twi," is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by a "w" sound. The second syllable, "ster," is pronounced with a short "e" sound followed by an "r" sound. The word can refer to a tornado or a person who twists or contorts something.
A twister is a noun that refers to a violent, rotating column of air that is often accompanied by a funnel-shaped cloud. Also known as a tornado or cyclone, it is a natural phenomenon characterized by its intense wind speeds, rapid rotation, and destructive potential. Twisters typically develop within severe thunderstorms when warm, moist air collides with cooler, dry air, resulting in the formation of a rotating updraft. The strong winds within a twister can exceed 300 miles per hour, causing extensive damage to everything in its path.
The term "twister" can also be used colloquially to describe something that twists or rotates quickly, such as a spinning top or a rotating dance move. In this context, it denotes an action or object that exhibits a circular or twisting motion. It can also refer to a person who tells exaggerated or implausible stories.
Additionally, "twister" is associated with the popular party game called Twister. This game involves players placing their hands and feet on colored dots on a mat, and then attempting to balance and contort their bodies to reach different spots on the mat without falling. It is often played as a fun and challenging activity at gatherings or social gatherings.
Twitchup.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
One who or that which twists; a rope or twine maker.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "twister" has a relatively straightforward etymology. It is derived from the verb "twist" which originated in Middle English from the Old English word "twist" or "twistian", meaning to turn or to rotate. The suffix "-er" is added to turn the verb into a noun, denoting a person or thing that performs or is associated with the action of twisting. In this case, "twister" refers to something that twists or spins, often used to describe a violent rotating storm, such as a tornado.
