wind shear

noun

: a radical shift in wind speed and direction that occurs over a very short distance

Examples of wind shear in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
La Niñas historically cause lower-than-average wind shear over the area in the Atlantic, thus allowing storms to form more easily. Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 26 Mar. 2025 When Could a Tornado Form? Tornadoes are most likely between late Monday night and early Tuesday morning, particularly where strong wind shear and Gulf moisture create unstable atmospheric conditions. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025 Tropical Storm Gordon Tropical Storm Gordon formed on Sept. 13, 2024, but was severely hindered by wind shear and failed to intensify significantly. Brandi D. Addison, Austin American-Statesman, 21 Nov. 2024 Meteorologists point to a strong cyclone in the Upper Mississippi Valley as the driving force behind this outbreak, with strong wind shear, high moisture levels, and unstable atmospheric conditions creating a dangerous environment for supercell thunderstorms. Mark Davis, Newsweek, 15 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wind shear

Word History

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wind shear was in 1941

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Wind shear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wind%20shear. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

wind shear

noun
: a radical shift in wind speed and direction that occurs over a very short distance

More from Merriam-Webster on wind shear

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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