Waterspout - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A waterspout is a rotating column of air over water that resembles a tornado. It forms during storms and can be dangerous to boats and coastal areas.
Definition:
A tornado-like column of water and spray formed by a whirlwind over a body of water.
Synonyms:
whirlwind, tornado, cyclone, vortex
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
calm, stillness
Common Collocations:
coastal waterspout, marine waterspout, funnel cloud, severe weather
Derivatives:
waterspouts (plural), waterspouting (gerund)
Usage Tips:
Use "waterspout" to describe a rotating column of air over water, distinct from land tornadoes.
Common Phrases:
"like a waterspout, " "waterspout warning, " "waterspout season"
Etymology:
From Old English "wæter" (water) + "spūtan" (to spout), referring to its appearance as a spouting column of water.
Examples:
- 1. The fishermen spotted a waterspout forming offshore.
- 2. A waterspout can be dangerous for small boats in the area.
- 3. We watched the waterspout dissipate as the storm passed.
- 4. The news warned sailors about possible waterspouts near the coast.