equinoctial storm
Definition
Noun: A violent rainstorm that occurs near the time of an equinox (the time when the sun crosses the celestial equator, making day and night of approximately equal length).
Usage
The term is used specifically in meteorology and descriptive writing to denote a severe storm temporally linked to the equinoxes in spring or autumn. - The sailors feared the equinoctial storm, knowing it could arrive as the seasons changed. - Records show that the coastline is often battered by an equinoctial storm every March.
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used historically or in literary contexts to describe storms of notable ferocity associated with the change of seasons.
- It implies a storm of significant intensity, not just ordinary seasonal rain.
Variants and Related Words
- Equinoctial (adjective): Pertaining to an equinox or to the equal length of day and night.
- The equinoctial gales are common in this region.
- Storm (noun): A violent disturbance of the atmosphere with strong winds and usually rain, thunder, lightning, or snow.
Synonyms
- Gale: A very strong wind.
- Tempest: A violent windy storm.
- Squall: A sudden violent gust of wind or a localized storm, especially one bringing rain, snow, or sleet.
Related Phrases
- Equinoctial gales: A related phrase often used interchangeably with "equinoctial storm" to emphasize the strong winds.
- The equinoctial gales delayed the ship's departure for a week.
Noun
-
a violent rainstorm near the time of an equinox
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