gust
UK: ɡʌst | US: ɡʌst
n. a sudden, strong rush of wind
n. a brief outburst of emotion or activity
vt. (archaic) to taste or enjoy something
The word "gust" originates from the Latin gustus, meaning "a tasting" or "sense of taste." Over time, it evolved in Old Norse (gustr) to mean "a blast of wind," likely metaphorically linking the suddenness of a taste sensation to a burst of wind. This dual meaning persisted in Middle English, though the "taste" sense is now archaic. The modern usage emphasizes abruptness, whether in weather or emotion.
A sudden gust of wind knocked over the patio umbrella.
She felt a gust of anger when she heard the news.
(Archaic) He paused to gust the fine wine before drinking.
The sails flapped wildly in the erratic gusts.
Laughter erupted in gusts during the comedy show.