storm

¹storm

noun, often attributive \ˈstȯrm\

Definition of STORM

1

a : a disturbance of the atmosphere marked by wind and usually by rain, snow, hail, sleet, or thunder and lightning b : a heavy fall of rain, snow, or hail c (1) : wind having a speed of 64 to 72 miles (103 to 117 kilometers) per hour (2) : whole gale — see beaufort scale table d : a serious disturbance of any element of nature

2

: a disturbed or agitated state <storms of emotion> : a sudden or violent commotion

3

: a heavy discharge of objects (as missiles)

4

: a tumultuous outburst <a storm of protests>

5

a : paroxysm 2 b : a sudden heavy influx or onset

6

: a violent assault on a defended position

7

plural : storm window

— by storm

: by or as if by employing a bold swift frontal movement especially with the intent of defeating or winning over quickly <took the literary world by storm>

— up a storm

: in a remarkable or energetic fashion —used as an intensifier <dancing up a storm>

Examples of STORM

1. The sky got dark and it looked like a storm was coming.
2. <a winter storm bringing about six inches of snow>

Origin of STORM

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German sturm storm, Old English styrian to stir

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to STORM

Synonyms: squall, tempest

Related Words: blizzard, ice storm, snowstorm; cloudburst, hailstorm, rainsquall, rainstorm, thundershower, thunderstorm, weather, windstorm; northeaster (or nor'easter), norther, southeaster, southwester; cyclone, hurricane, typhoon; sandstorm

Near Antonyms: dribble, drip, trickle

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Other Climate/Meteorology Terms

monsoon, occlusion, ozone, rime, squall, zephyr

Rhymes with STORM

corm, dorm, form, norm, swarm, warm