# squall

/ˈskwɔɫ/ (US) · /skwˈɒl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/squall
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

a sudden, short burst of strong wind, often with heavy rain or snow. It starts fast and usually does not last long.

For teachers: a sudden, violent gust of wind or localised storm, often accompanied by rain or snow and lasting only a short time.

## Examples

- A sudden squall hits the boat on the lake.
- The sailors rush to lower the sails when a dark squall appears over the harbour.
- Without warning the sky darkens and a fierce squall sweeps across the bay, churning the water white before passing as quickly as it came.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.