MODERATE GALE Meaning and
Definition
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A moderate gale is a descriptive term used to define a specific level of wind speed as part of the Beaufort scale, which classifies wind strength based on visual observations and sea conditions. It is generally associated with a wind speed ranging between 28 and 33 knots (about 32 to 38 mph or 51 to 61 km/h).
A moderate gale is characterized by notable activities such as tree branches in motion, whistling or howling sounds in the air, and sea foam blown in streaks along the direction of the wind. At this intensity, small sailing boats may experience difficulty maintaining course or impeded progress against the wind. Additionally, moderate gales can lead to rougher seas, creating larger waves and potential hazards for smaller vessels.
The term "moderate" in this context is used to distinguish this level of wind from others, such as "strong gales" or "hurricane-force winds", which indicate even greater wind speeds and potentially more severe weather conditions.
Due to the potential risks and inconveniences associated with moderate gales, weather forecasts often include warnings and advisories to alert individuals engaging in outdoor activities or maritime navigation. These alerts aim to inform and help people make informed decisions regarding their safety or alternative plans until the wind speed subsides.
Common Misspellings for MODERATE GALE
- noderate gale
- koderate gale
- joderate gale
- miderate gale
- mkderate gale
- mlderate gale
- mpderate gale
- m0derate gale
- m9derate gale
- moserate gale
- moxerate gale
- mocerate gale
- moferate gale
- morerate gale
- moeerate gale
- modwrate gale
- modsrate gale
- moddrate gale
- modrrate gale
Etymology of MODERATE GALE
The word "moderate gale" is a nautical term used to describe a strong wind blowing at a specific speed range on the Beaufort Scale, which is a measure of wind intensity. The etymology of the term "gale" can be traced back to Middle English, borrowed from Old Norse "galinn", meaning "mad, furious". It came to be used specifically for strong winds in the 17th century.
The word "moderate", on the other hand, originated from Latin "moderatus", the past participle of the verb "moderare", meaning "to control, regulate". It entered the English language via Middle French in the 14th century, maintaining its sense of something kept within bounds or not excessive.
Therefore, the term "moderate gale" combines the idea of strong wind (gale) with the notion that it falls within a controlled or regulated range (moderate).
Similar spelling words for MODERATE GALE
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