# Bora

/ˈbɔɹə/ (US) · /bˈɔːɹɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bora
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a very strong, cold, and dry wind that blows from the north or northeast. It usually happens in the winter along the coast of the Adriatic Sea.

For teachers: a cold, dry, and often violent katabatic wind blowing from the north or northeast. It is characteristic of the Adriatic coast and parts of the Black Sea, occurring when cold air accumulates over the mountains and rushes down to the sea.

## Examples

- The bora is blowing hard today.
- Local residents secured their shutters tightly as the bora began to howl through the narrow coastal streets.
- The intensity of the bora can reach hurricane speeds, creating treacherous conditions for maritime navigation and causing significant temperature drops across the Dalmatian coastline within a matter of hours.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the definite article 'the' when referring to the specific weather phenomenon.

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