Word of the Day

williwaw

[wil-ee-waw]

noun:

a violent squall that blows in near-polar latitudes

Explanation

A williwaw is a sudden, violent squall that whips down from coastal mountains toward the sea in near-polar regions like Alaska or Tierra del Fuego. These fierce gusts can arise without warning, often under clear skies, making them a hazard for ships and small aircraft. A williwaw can test the mettle of even experienced captains.

Example: The sailors quickly prepared for the williwaw that tore across the cold waters.