Squall: meaning, definitions and examples

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squall

[skwɔːl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

weather

A sudden violent gust of wind or a localized storm, especially one bringing rain, snow, or sleet.

Synonyms

blast, gust, storm.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
squall	Use 'squall' to describe a sudden, violent wind often accompanied by rain or snow. It's typically short-lived but intense. A sudden squall capsized the small boat. We had to take cover quickly as a squall blew through.
storm	Use 'storm' to refer to a more prolonged disturbance in the atmosphere, usually with rain, thunder, lightning, or snow. It is more severe and can last for hours or even days. The storm raged all night, keeping us awake with thunder and lightning. We decided to stay indoors due to the approaching storm.
gust	Use 'gust' to describe a brief, strong rush of wind. It is less intense than a squall and is often used in everyday conversation. A gust of wind knocked over the trash can. As we were walking, a sudden gust almost blew my hat off.
blast	Use 'blast' to indicate a powerful burst of wind or air. It can also be used metaphorically for a sudden loud noise or an explosion. It often has a strong impact. The icy blast of wind took my breath away. A blast of music filled the room as soon as we opened the door.

Examples of usage

The boat was hit by a squall and nearly capsized.
We were caught in a squall while hiking in the mountains.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

weather

(Of the wind) blow strongly for a short period.

Synonyms

blow, howl.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
squall	A ‘squall’ is a sudden, sharp increase in wind speed, often accompanied by rain, snow, or sleet. It's used to describe a brief but intense weather event. A sudden squall caught the sailors off guard The weather forecast predicts squalls along the coast this afternoon
blow	The term 'blow' can be used in a general sense to describe the action of the wind or air moving. It's commonly used in everyday conversations about wind conditions. The wind began to blow stronger as the storm approached She watched the leaves blow across the yard
howl	‘Howl’ is used to describe the sound of strong winds, often associated with storms or high winds. It conveys a sense of intensity and power. The wind began to howl through the trees, making it hard to sleep The winter storm caused the wind to howl all night

Word

Description / Examples

squall

A ‘squall’ is a sudden, sharp increase in wind speed, often accompanied by rain, snow, or sleet. It's used to describe a brief but intense weather event.

A sudden squall caught the sailors off guard
The weather forecast predicts squalls along the coast this afternoon

blow

The term 'blow' can be used in a general sense to describe the action of the wind or air moving. It's commonly used in everyday conversations about wind conditions.

The wind began to blow stronger as the storm approached
She watched the leaves blow across the yard

howl

‘Howl’ is used to describe the sound of strong winds, often associated with storms or high winds. It conveys a sense of intensity and power.

The wind began to howl through the trees, making it hard to sleep
The winter storm caused the wind to howl all night

Examples of usage

The wind began to squall, making it difficult to walk.

Interesting Facts

Meteorology

A squall can occur with little warning, changing calm weather into turbulent conditions almost instantly.
There are various types of squalls, including snow squalls that can drop heavy snowfall in a short time.
Marine squalls are common at sea, causing dangerous conditions for ships due to high winds and waves.

Literature

In literature, squalls often symbolize sudden changes or emotional turmoil, reflecting chaos in characters’ lives.
Authors like Hemingway and Melville have used squalls in their stories to create tension and foreshadow conflict.
Poetry sometimes captures squalls as metaphors for fleeting emotional states, emphasizing their brief yet impactful nature.

History

Historical sailors often feared squalls, as they could lead to shipwrecks and maritime disasters.
The term 'squall' first appeared in English documents in the 15th century, highlighting its long-standing place in navigation and weather observation.
During the Age of Exploration, understanding squalls became essential for successful voyages across unpredictable oceans.

Science

Meteorologists classify squalls as a type of convective storm, indicating their fast development from stable conditions.
Squalls can be affected by geographical features; valleys and mountains may enhance wind speeds or change the storm’s path.
The study of squalls has led to improved weather forecasting technology, allowing for better safety warnings for sudden weather changes.

Pop Culture

Squall Leonhart is a central character in the video game Final Fantasy VIII, known for his brooding nature and sword skills.
The term 'squall' captures attention in music, representing emotional outbursts in songs, often used to signify passion or distress.
In film, squalls are often depicted to heighten dramatic moments, emphasizing the contrast between tranquility and chaos.

Translations

Translations of the word "squall" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tempestade

🇮🇳 झोंका

🇩🇪 Sturm

🇮🇩 angin kencang

🇺🇦 шторми

🇵🇱 sztorm

🇯🇵 スコール

🇫🇷 tempête

🇪🇸 tempestad

🇹🇷 fırtına

🇰🇷 돌풍

🇸🇦 عاصفة

🇨🇿 bouře

🇸🇰 búrka

🇨🇳 风暴

🇸🇮 nevihta

🇮🇸 stormur

🇰🇿 дауыл

🇬🇪 ქარიშხალი

🇦🇿 qasırğa

🇲🇽 tormenta

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,491, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
23488 idler
23489 pranks
23490 franchising
23491 squall
23492 lifeline
23493 unwonted
23494 loch
...