monsoon
UK: mɒnˈsuːn | US: mɑːnˈsuːn
n. a seasonal wind system in South and Southeast Asia, bringing heavy rains in summer and dry weather in winter
n. the rainy season associated with these winds
The word "monsoon" traces back to Arabic traders who noted the predictable seasonal winds (mawsim) crucial for navigation in the Indian Ocean. European colonial powers (Portuguese/Dutch) later adopted and adapted the term, merging mawsim with local words for wind. The modern spelling stabilized in English by the 16th century, preserving the original logic of "seasonal winds."
Farmers rely on the monsoon for irrigation.
The monsoon arrived earlier than expected this year.
Coastal regions face flooding during peak monsoon months.
Monsoon clouds darkened the sky by afternoon.
Travel plans were disrupted due to the intense monsoon rains.