gale

UK: ɡeɪl | US: ɡeɪl

Definition

  1. n. a very strong wind

  2. n. (archaic) a burst of sound or emotion (e.g., laughter)

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "gale" traces back to Old English gāl ("mad, wicked") or Old Norse galinn ("frenzied"), likely influenced by the violent nature of storms. By the 16th century, it evolved to specifically denote strong winds, reflecting the chaotic energy of its earlier meanings. Its compact Germanic structure resists further morpheme division.

Examples

  1. The fishermen hurried back to shore as the gale intensified.

  2. A sudden gale knocked down power lines across the town.

  3. Her gale of laughter filled the quiet room.

  4. Sailors warned of an approaching gale.

  5. The trees swayed violently in the winter gale.