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Blizzard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blizzard

[ˈblɪzərd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

weather

A blizzard is a severe snowstorm with strong winds and low visibility.

Synonyms

snow squall, snowstorm, whiteout.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blizzard

A blizzard is a severe snowstorm with strong winds and very low visibility. It typically causes significant disruption and is dangerous for travel.

  • The blizzard last night dumped over two feet of snow, closing all the roads.
  • We decided to stay indoors due to the impending blizzard.
snowstorm

A snowstorm refers to a heavy fall of snow, typically characterized by moderate to heavy accumulations, but without the intense winds of a blizzard.

  • The snowstorm left us with enough snow to build a snowman.
  • Schools were closed due to the snowstorm that blanketed the region.
whiteout

A whiteout is a weather condition where blowing snow or fog creates such low visibility that the horizon and ground are indistinguishable, making it extremely dangerous to navigate.

  • Driving in the whiteout was terrifying; I could barely see the road in front of me.
  • The mountaineers were caught in a whiteout and lost their way.
snow squall

A snow squall is a brief but intense snowfall that comes with sudden strong winds, significantly reducing visibility but not lasting as long as a blizzard.

  • A snow squall hit the town just as we were heading out, and we had to pull over.
  • The weather service issued a warning for an approaching snow squall.

Examples of usage

  • The blizzard lasted for three days, causing chaos across the city.
  • We were advised to stay indoors during the blizzard to avoid getting lost in the snow.
  • The blizzard warning prompted schools and businesses to close for safety reasons.
Context #2 | Noun

gaming

In gaming, a blizzard is a video game company known for popular titles like World of Warcraft and Overwatch.

Synonyms

Blizzard Entertainment, game developer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blizzard

Commonly used in weather reports or casual conversations to describe a severe snowstorm with high winds and low visibility.

  • The blizzard last night left the roads impassable
  • We had to stay indoors due to the blizzard
Blizzard Entertainment

Specifically refers to the video game company known for creating popular games such as 'World of Warcraft' and 'Overwatch'. This term is used in discussions about the gaming industry or related topics.

  • Blizzard Entertainment just announced the release date for their new game
  • Many gamers are excited about the upcoming updates from Blizzard Entertainment
game developer

A general term used to describe individuals or companies involved in the creation and development of video games. This phrase can be used in conversations about video games, the tech industry, or job roles.

  • She works as a game developer and is currently designing a new mobile game
  • Many game developers are focused on creating immersive virtual reality experiences

Examples of usage

  • Many gamers are excited about the upcoming release from Blizzard Entertainment.
  • The latest update from Blizzard has caused a lot of buzz in the gaming community.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Weather Phenomena

  • Blizzards occur when winds exceed 35 miles per hour, combined with heavy snowfall for at least three hours.
  • Visibility during a blizzard can drop to less than a quarter of a mile, making travel very dangerous.
  • They are often accompanied by extreme cold, which increases the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.

Historical Occurrences

  • The Great Blizzard of 1888 struck the northeastern United States, closing schools and causing mass transportation halts due to heavy snowfall.
  • In 1978, a blizzard paralyzed parts of the Midwest and Northeast, with some areas reporting over 25 inches of snow.
  • Blizzards have been documented throughout history, often leading to significant loss of life and changes in travel and infrastructure.

Cultural References

  • Blizzards are popular elements in movies and literature, often symbolizing struggle or transformation, as seen in films like 'Frozen'.
  • The term 'blizzard' has been used metaphorically in music and art to describe overwhelming emotions or experiences.
  • In folklore, harsh winter storms often serve as a backdrop for tales of survival and resilience.

Preparedness and Safety

  • During a blizzard, it's crucial to have an emergency kit with food, water, and blankets to stay safe indoors.
  • Officials recommend staying updated on weather forecasts and avoiding travel during a blizzard to prevent accidents.
  • Cities often deploy snowplows and salt trucks to manage roadways, demonstrating how urban environments adapt to harsh winter conditions.

Environmental Impact

  • Blizzards can affect local ecosystems, influencing animal migration patterns and plant growth cycles.
  • The accumulation of snow during blizzards plays a critical role in replenishing water supplies in spring as it melts.
  • In some regions, blizzards are essential for maintaining the winter habitat of various wildlife species.

Origin of 'blizzard'

The word 'blizzard' originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. It is believed to be a combination of the words 'blast' and 'hazard', reflecting the dangerous and intense nature of this weather phenomenon. Blizzards have been historically associated with harsh winter conditions, particularly in regions prone to heavy snowfall and strong winds.

See also: ablaze, blazer, blazing.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,136, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.