noun
squall
SKWAWL/skwɔːl/
A sudden violent gust of wind, often with rain.
A squall bends the tree and drives rain across the path.
Etymology
Originally a nautical term, squall probably comes from a Scandinavian source associated with rushing water or gushing. Alternatively, it may derive from the verb meaning “cry out or scream loudly”; the weather word’s origin remains uncertain.
In context
there came a brisk land wind which blew them out to sea. It grew into a squall with rain and fog
More examples
- The sailors lower the sail before the squall hits.
- Several squalls pass over the lake during the afternoon.
- The squall ends almost as quickly as it begins.
Forms
squall · squalls