gale

gale · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A very strong wind, typically classified as force 7-10 on the Beaufort scale (32-63 mph).

  2. 2.

    (figurative) An outburst of something, especially laughter.

Forms

plural: gales

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    gale-force winds — extremely strong winds
  • •
    gales of laughter — uncontrollable fits of laughing
  • •
    ride out the gale — to survive a difficult situation

Related words

See also: hurricane, storm, wind
Synonyms: squall, tempest, windstorm

Etymology

Possibly from Old Norse galinn (mad, frantic) or related to Danish gal (furious).