whirling tides; whirlpool
Refers to a swirling tidal current or a whirlpool, often in the sea. Can be used literally or figuratively.
鳴門海峡の渦潮は有名な観光名所だ。
The whirlpools of the Naruto Strait are a famous tourist attraction.
The boat was almost caught in the whirling tides.
Standard kanji spelling.
Kana spelling is common in everyday writing, especially when the kanji are not needed.
Compound of 渦 (uzu, 'whirlpool') and 潮 (shio, 'tide'). The reading うずしお is a straightforward combination of the two elements.