Gale

A gale is a very strong wind, typically a sustained wind with a speed between 39 and 46 miles per hour (63 to 74 kilometers per hour) on the Beaufort wind scale. It's a wind strong enough to cause significant effects, such as the bending or breaking of trees, making walking difficult, and causing damage to buildings and infrastructure. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe a powerful or overwhelming force, often in a non-literal context, such as a burst of emotion or applause.

Gale meaning with examples

• The ship struggled to navigate through the raging gale, its sails billowing precariously. The sailors battled the wind and waves, fighting to keep the vessel afloat amidst the storm. Despite the treacherous conditions, the captain and crew remained determined to reach their destination, hoping the gale would soon subside. It was a test of seamanship and the resilience of both man and vessel.
• The sudden gale ripped through the seaside town, causing power outages and uprooting trees. Residents hurried to secure their homes as the wind howled ominously. The unrelenting gusts battered buildings, tossing debris into the air. Emergency services worked tirelessly to respond to the numerous calls for assistance, assessing damage and restoring essential services.
• A gale of laughter erupted from the audience as the comedian delivered the punchline. The crowd was swept away by the humor, their faces flushed with amusement. It was an infectious moment of shared joy and camaraderie. The energy in the room soared as people celebrated the experience of finding mirth and laughter in such a social setting.
• His sudden outburst was a gale of anger, catching everyone by surprise. His face contorted with emotion as he vented his frustrations. The force of his words was like a physical assault. The room was charged with tension, and his outburst left people in stunned silence and wondering what had just happened.