Hailstone Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จ๏ธ
hailstone
[หheษชl.stoสn ]
Definition
weather phenomenon
A hailstone is a pellet of frozen rain that can vary in size from small pellets to large chunks of ice. Hailstones form during thunderstorms with strong updrafts that carry water droplets into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere. The droplets freeze and can accumulate layers of ice, resulting in larger hailstones. Hail can cause damage to vehicles, crops, and buildings due to its size and weight when it falls to the ground.
Synonyms
freeze rain, frozen precipitation, ice pellet.
Examples of usage
- The hailstones were so large they shattered the car windows.
- Farmers were concerned about the damage from the hailstones to their crops.
- We sought shelter from the storm as hailstones began to fall.
- Hailstones can vary greatly in size, some as big as golf balls.
Translations
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Origin of 'hailstone'
The term 'hailstone' originates from the combination of the word 'hail' and 'stone.' The Old English word 'hรฆgel' refers to hail and is related to the Old Norse word 'hagall,' which has the same meaning. Throughout history, hail has been noted in literature and weather records as a severe weather phenomenon. The term 'stone' adds to the description of hail's solid form, distinguishing it from other types of precipitation like rain or snow. Hailstones can cause significant impact and damage during thunderstorms, which is why they have received attention in weather studies and everyday language.