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tempest

noun

/ˈtɛmpɪst/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of tempest

A violent and turbulent windstorm, often accompanied by rain, thunder, and lightning.
"The tempest swept across the coast, tearing down trees and power lines."

Detailed meaning of tempest

It can be described as a violent commotion or disturbance in the atmosphere, with strong gusts of wind that can cause significant damage to structures and trees. The word 'tempest' is also used metaphorically to describe any sudden and intense emotional outburst or upheaval, such as a tempest of anger, passion, or despair. In literature and drama, a tempest can refer to a powerful and destructive force of nature that drives the plot and brings about a crisis, often with catastrophic consequences. The image of a tempest can evoke a sense of chaos, danger, and unpredictability, but also the raw power and beauty of nature's most powerful forces.

Example sentences containing tempest

1. The tempest raged outside, with howling winds and crashing thunder.
2. The sailors battled the fierce tempest on the open sea.
3. She sought shelter from the tempest under a sturdy tree.
4. The tempest unleashed its fury, shaking the entire house.
5. We watched the tempest from the safety of our cozy cabin.
6. The shipwreck was a tragic outcome of the tempest's wrath.

History and etymology of tempest

The noun 'tempest' has its etymology in Latin and Old French. It is derived from the Latin word 'tempestas,' which means 'storm' or 'bad weather.' This Latin term was adopted into Old French as 'tempeste,' carrying a similar meaning. In the Middle Ages, 'tempest' made its way into the English language, describing a violent and turbulent windstorm, often accompanied by rain, thunder, and lightning. Its etymology highlights its origin in the Latin 'tempestas,' emphasizing the stormy and tumultuous nature of such weather events, which can indeed be fierce and unpredictable, as implied by its historical roots.

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Further usage examples of tempest

1. The tempest swept through the town, leaving destruction in its wake.
2. The tempest's lightning illuminated the night sky.
3. The tempest abated, leaving behind a tranquil, rain-soaked landscape.
4. They found refuge in a cave during the tempest.
5. The tempest passed, revealing a rainbow in the clearing sky.
6. The tempest's power was awe-inspiring and terrifying.
7. The tempest disrupted power lines and caused blackouts.
8. The tempest churned the sea into a frothy, tumultuous mass.
9. He penned poems inspired by the tempest's raw beauty.
10. The tempest brought relief from the scorching summer heat.
11. Our house sustained damage during the tempest's fury.
12. The tempest's arrival was preceded by ominous dark clouds.
13. The tempest's roar drowned out all other sounds.
14. The tempest's force was enough to uproot trees.
15. She captured stunning photographs of the tempest.
16. The tempest's arrival was sudden and unexpected.
17. The tempest's aftermath required extensive cleanup efforts.
18. The tempest's fury could be heard for miles.
19. They huddled together for warmth during the tempest.