storm
UK: stɔːm | US: stɔːrm
n. 1. A violent disturbance of the atmosphere with strong winds, rain, thunder, or snow.
n. 2. A tumultuous reaction or outburst (e.g., of emotion or protest).
vt. 3. To attack or capture (a place) suddenly and violently.
The word "storm" traces back to Old English storm, meaning "violent weather, tempest," from Proto-Germanic sturmaz (source also of Old Norse stormr, Old High German sturm). Its deeper Proto-Indo-European root stwer- means "to whirl, scatter," reflecting the chaotic motion of storms. The word has retained its core meaning of atmospheric violence while expanding metaphorically (e.g., "storm of criticism").
The ship sank during a fierce storm at sea.
Her resignation caused a political storm.
Protesters stormed the government building.
We took shelter before the storm hit.
His sudden announcement left her in a storm of emotions.