storm-cone

A warning flag is raised as a storm-cone flies above the harbor.

Definition

Noun: A storm-cone is a conical canvas or metal object used as a visual signal to warn of an approaching storm, typically displayed at coastal stations or harbors to indicate the direction and intensity of the storm.

Usage Examples

• (A physical warning signal for an incoming storm.)
• (A navigational aid based on visual cues.)

Advanced Usage

• "storm-cone signal": a specific code system using one or more cones to indicate storm type (e.g., a single cone for a gale, two cones for a hurricane).
  • The port authority hoisted a single storm-cone to warn of an approaching gale from the northwest. (A standardized warning signal.)

Variants and Related Words

• Storm (n): a violent disturbance of the atmosphere with strong winds and usually rain, thunder, lightning, or snow.

  • The storm knocked down several trees. (The weather event itself.)

• Cone (n): a solid or hollow object that tapers from a circular base to a point.

  • The traffic cone was placed on the road for safety. (A similar shape used for other purposes.)

Synonyms

• Storm warning signal: a general term for any device or sign that indicates an approaching storm.
• Gale cone: a specific type of storm-cone used to warn of gale-force winds.

Related Idioms

• "Raise a storm-cone": to issue a warning or signal of impending trouble.
  • The government raised a storm-cone over the economic crisis. (To alert the public to a serious problem, used metaphorically.)