squall

views updated May 21 2018

squall / skwôl/ • n. a sudden violent gust of wind or a localized storm, esp. one bringing rain, snow, or sleet: low clouds and squalls of driving rain. ∎  a loud cry: he emitted a short mournful squall.• v. [intr.] (of a baby or small child) cry noisily and continuously: Sarah was squalling in her crib.DERIVATIVES: squal·ly adj.

squall

views updated May 23 2018

squall cry out violently. XVII. prob. alt. of SQUEAL by assoc. with BAWL.
Hence perh. sb. sudden and violent gust of wind (and rain). XVIII.

squall

views updated May 23 2018

squall A short-lived weather condition with strong winds, which increase by at least 16 knots (30 km/hr). It may include thunder and heavy precipitation. See also line squall.

squall

views updated May 08 2018

squall Short-lived condition with strong winds, which increase by at least 16 knots (30 km/hr). It may include thunder and heavy precipitation. See also LINE SQUALLS.