Squall

Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -ɔːl

Origin

The verb is from Old Norse skvala ("to cry out"). The noun is probably from the verb.

Full definition of squall

Noun

1. A squall line, multicell line, or part of a squall line.
2. A sudden storm, as found in a squall line. Often a nautical usage.

Verb

1. To cry or wail loudly.
• 1883, Robert Louis Stevenson, Treasure Island:Squalling was the word for it, Pew's anger rose so high at these objections; till at last, his passion completely taking the upper hand, he struck at them right and left in his blindness, and his stick sounded heavily on more than one.
• 1916, Jack London, The Red One:Squalling like an infuriated cat, the shadow crashed down
• 1998, Anne McCafferey, Masterharper of Pern:she wrapped the squalling, wriggling baby tightly into the fine cotton sheet

Derived terms

• squaller
• squally