Definition

Noun: A dry, cold, northerly wind that occurs in southeastern France, particularly in the Rhône Valley and Provence region. It is a regional wind known for its clear skies and significant cooling effect.

Usage

The term "bize" is used specifically in meteorological and geographical contexts to describe this local wind phenomenon. It functions as a countable noun.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The bize blew fiercely, dropping temperatures by ten degrees.
  • Farmers in the valley prepare for the bize, which can damage early spring crops.
  • We had to postpone the picnic due to the arrival of the bize.

Advanced Usage

• "a strong bize": Used to emphasize the wind's intensity.
  • A strong bize is forecasted for the weekend.
• "the bize from the north": Specifies the wind's direction, though this is inherent to its definition.
  • The bize from the north brings exceptionally clear air.

Variants and Related Words

• Mistral: A more common and general term for a strong, cold, northwesterly wind that blows into the Mediterranean basin from southern France. The is often considered a specific type or instance of the mistral wind pattern.
• Tramontane: Another term for a cold, dry, northerly wind in the Mediterranean region, similar to the mistral.

Synonyms

• North wind: A general term for winds originating from the north.
• Cold wind: A general descriptor for winds that lower the temperature.

Notes on Meaning

This word has a single, specific meaning related to a regional meteorological phenomenon. It is not to be confused with the more general English word "biz," which is an informal abbreviation for "business."

Noun

1. a dry cold north wind in southeastern France