Snowstorm Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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snowstorm
[ˈsnəʊˌstɔːm ]
Definitions
weather condition
A snowstorm is a storm in which there is a heavy fall of snow.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| snowstorm |
Use this word when referring to a storm with heavy snow and strong winds. It's a general term for widespread snowfall that might impact visibility and make travel difficult.
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| blizzard |
Use 'blizzard' for severe snowstorms with very strong winds and often poor visibility. This term implies extreme conditions that are more severe than a typical snowstorm.
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| snowfall |
Use 'snowfall' to refer specifically to the amount of snow that falls during a certain period. It is less intense, referring merely to the act of snow falling from the sky.
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Examples of usage
- The roads were closed due to the severe snowstorm.
- We got stuck at home during the snowstorm.
impact on transportation
A snowstorm can cause disruption to transportation and infrastructure.
Synonyms
snow squall, whiteout.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| snowstorm |
A snowstorm refers to a heavy fall of snow, often accompanied by strong winds, and is typically used to describe prolonged periods of significant snowfall.
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| snow squall |
A snow squall is a sudden, brief, and intense snowfall accompanied by strong winds, often leading to very poor visibility. It's short-lived compared to a snowstorm.
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| whiteout |
A whiteout occurs when snowfall or blowing snow reduces visibility to near zero, making it difficult to see landmarks and creating a disorienting situation. It can happen during a snowstorm or a snow squall.
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Examples of usage
- The airport cancelled flights because of the snowstorm.
- The snowstorm delayed the train services.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- The Great Blizzard of 1888 in America is one of the deadliest snowstorms, paralyzing the Northeast and causing hundreds of deaths.
- Snowstorms have historically impacted transportation and trade, leading to significant delays and changes in travel routes.
Meteorology
- Snowstorms can cause blizzards, which are defined by sustained winds over 35 mph and visibility reduced to a quarter mile.
- Forecasters use radar technology to track snowstorm formations and predict their path, helping communities prepare.
Cultural Impact
- Many cultures celebrate winter with festivals that enjoy snowstorms, like building snowmen or having snowball fights.
- Songs and stories often romanticize snowstorms, portraying them as magical events, such as in 'Let It Snow!'
Science
- A snowstorm typically forms when cold moist air rises, cools, and condenses, producing snowflakes that fall together during precipitation.
- The scientific study of snowstorms also includes the impact on ecosystems, as snow acts as insulation for plants and animals.
Origin of 'snowstorm'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'snow' comes from the Old English 'snāw', while 'storm' has roots in the Proto-Germanic 'sturmaz', meaning a violent disturbance.
- Together, 'snowstorm' reflects an event where heavy snowfall is accompanied by turbulent weather, combining the elements of each root word.
The term 'snowstorm' originated in the early 18th century, derived from the combination of 'snow' and 'storm'. Snowstorms have been a natural phenomenon for centuries, impacting regions with heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions. They have influenced transportation, agriculture, and daily life in various parts of the world.
See also: snow, snowboard, snowboarder, snowfall, snowflake, snowslide, snowslip, snowy.