Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Characterized by short, sudden, and violent gusts of wind: Describes weather conditions marked by brief periods of strong, turbulent winds.
   • Characterized by short periods of noisy disturbance or commotion: Describes a situation, atmosphere, or period that is turbulent, unsettled, and marked by bursts of noisy activity or conflict.

Usage and Examples

• Describing Weather:

  • The sailing trip was canceled due to the squally conditions forecast for the afternoon.
  • We experienced a few squally showers during our hike, but the sun returned quickly.

• Describing Situations or Atmospheres:

  • Their relationship went through a squally phase with frequent arguments.
  • The meeting became quite squally when the budget cuts were announced.

Advanced Usage

• "Squally" is often used metaphorically to extend the sense of sudden turbulence from weather to abstract concepts like emotions, relationships, or periods of time.
  • The political climate has been unusually squally this election season.
  • Her teenage years were a squally time of emotional ups and downs.

Variants and Related Words

• Squall (n): A sudden, violent gust of wind, often accompanied by rain, snow, or sleet. Also used for a loud, harsh cry or a brief period of noisy commotion.

  • A sudden squall forced the boats to return to harbor.
  • The baby let out a squall of protest.

• Squall (v): To cry or scream loudly and harshly.

  • The toddler began to squall when his toy was taken away.

Synonyms

• Blustery: (For weather) Characterized by strong, gusty winds.
• Stormy: (For weather and situations) Characterized by storms or emotional turbulence.
• Turbulent: (For situations) Characterized by conflict, disorder, or instability.

Antonyms

• Calm: (For weather and situations) Not stormy or agitated; peaceful.
• Serene: (For situations) Calm, peaceful, and untroubled.
• Placid: (For weather and situations) Not easily upset or excited; calm.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To look/have a squally look: (Less common) To appear threatening or as if trouble is coming, similar to the look of stormy weather.
  • The negotiations have a squally look about them; an agreement seems far off.

Adjective

1. characterized by brief periods of violent wind or rain
   • a grey squally morning
2. characterized by short periods of noisy commotion
   • a home life that has been extraordinarily squally