gale

/geil/

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Word: Gale

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A "gale" is a very strong wind. In terms of speed, it is a wind that moves between 45 to 90 knots (which is about 51 to 104 miles per hour or 82 to 167 kilometers per hour). On the Beaufort scale, which measures wind strength, a gale falls between force 7 and force 10.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "gale" when talking about strong winds, especially in weather reports or when discussing natural events.
• It is often used in contexts related to sailing, storms, and weather conditions.

Example:

• "The ship had to stay in port because a gale was expected to hit the coast."

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or poetry, "gale" can be used metaphorically to describe an overwhelming force or an intense feeling, such as a "gale of laughter," which means a loud and uncontrollable laugh.

Word Variants:

• "Gale-force" (adjective): Describes winds that are strong enough to be classified as a gale.
  • Example: "The gale-force winds made it difficult to walk outside."

Different Meanings:

• While "gale" primarily refers to wind, it can also refer to an intense burst of something, like laughter or emotion, as mentioned earlier.

Synonyms:

• Windstorm
• Tempest
• Squall (though a squall is usually shorter and more sudden)

Idioms:

• "A gale of laughter": This phrase means a loud and hearty laugh.
• "To weather the gale": This means to endure a difficult situation or challenge.

Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no commonly used phrasal verbs directly associated with "gale," but you might hear phrases like "to be caught in a gale," which means to find oneself in the middle of very strong winds.

Summary:

In summary, "gale" is a noun that describes a strong wind, especially important in discussions of weather. It can also be used metaphorically to describe powerful emotions or reactions.

Academic

Noun

1. a strong wind moving 45-90 knots; force 7 to 10 on Beaufort scale