gale
Noun: 1. A very strong wind: A "gale" is a powerful wind, specifically one with a speed between 34 and 63 miles per hour (55-102 km/h or 29-54 knots). This corresponds to forces 7 to 10 on the Beaufort scale, which measures wind intensity. It is stronger than a strong breeze but not as powerful as a hurricane. 2. An outburst of sound or emotion: By extension, "gale" can describe a sudden, loud, and often unrestrained burst of something, such as laughter or applause.
The word "gale" is used to describe weather conditions and, metaphorically, intense expressions of sound or feeling. * As a weather term, it is often used in forecasts, warnings, and nautical contexts. * In its metaphorical sense, it is typically used in the plural form ("gales") and followed by "of" (e.g., gales of laughter).
- Noun (Weather):
- The small boat struggled to stay afloat in the fierce gale.
- A severe gale warning has been issued for coastal areas.
- The roof was damaged by last night's gale.
- Noun (Outburst):
- His joke was met with gales of laughter from the audience.
- The announcement provoked a gale of protest from the crowd.
- "to blow a gale": This phrase is used to say that a gale-force wind is blowing.
- It's been blowing a gale all day, so it's not safe to go sailing.
- "gale-force" (adjective): Used to describe winds of gale intensity or, metaphorically, something of great force.
- The storm brought gale-force winds.
- She faced gale-force criticism for her decision.
- Gale-force (adj.): Of or relating to wind speeds characteristic of a gale.
- Sweet gale (n.): A type of aromatic shrub (also known as bog myrtle).
- Storm: A violent disturbance of the atmosphere with strong winds, often including rain, thunder, or snow. (Broader than "gale").
- Tempest: A violent, windy storm. (More literary).
- Squall: A sudden, violent gust of wind or a localized storm, often brief.
- Outburst: A sudden release of strong emotion or sound. (For the metaphorical sense).
- Gale warning: An official alert issued by meteorological services indicating that winds of gale force are expected.
- Gales of laughter: Very loud, uncontrollable laughter from a group of people.
- The comedian's performance had the entire theater in gales of laughter.
- a strong wind moving 45-90 knots; force 7 to 10 on Beaufort scale