TRADE WINDS Meaning and
Definition
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Trade winds are steady, consistent prevailing winds that blow predominantly from specific directions across the Earth's tropical regions. These winds occur in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and are commonly found between the latitudes of 30 degrees north and south. The trade winds are characterized by their constant direction, generally blowing from the northeast in the Northern Hemisphere and from the southeast in the Southern Hemisphere. They are named as such because they historically facilitated trade routes for sailing vessels traversing the seas.
Trade winds are caused by the differential heating of the Earth's surface, which creates atmospheric pressure variations. As the warm air near the equator rises, it creates a low-pressure region, which allows cooler air from higher latitudes to flow towards the equator. This movement of air generates the trade winds.
The trade winds play a crucial role in determining weather patterns, especially in tropical regions. With their consistent nature, they affect the transportation of moisture, bringing precipitation to coastal regions and influencing the formation of tropical storms and hurricanes. Additionally, they impact oceanic currents, keeping tropical waters cooler and aiding in the ocean's circulation system.
The predictability and durability of the trade winds have made them historically significant for maritime trade routes, as sailing vessels could rely on their reliability for navigation and speed. Today, the trade winds continue to play a vital role in various industries, including shipping, aviation, and even renewable energy generation.
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Winds which hold a certain steady course; winds in or near the torrid zone which blow nearly in the same direction throughout the year, and which are taken adavantage of by ships engaged in trade.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TRADE WINDS
- tradewinds
- rrade winds
- frade winds
- grade winds
- yrade winds
- 6rade winds
- 5rade winds
- teade winds
- tdade winds
- tfade winds
- ttade winds
- t5ade winds
- t4ade winds
- trzde winds
- trsde winds
- trwde winds
- trqde winds
- trase winds
- traxe winds
- trace winds
Etymology of TRADE WINDS
The term "trade winds" is derived from the Old English word "trād" or "trǣd", which means "track" or "path". The origin is believed to be from the Germanic word "trada" meaning "course" or "way". The word "trade" in "trade winds" refers to the regular patterns of wind flow experienced by sailors engaged in long-distance trade routes. These winds were crucial for facilitating sea trade during the age of exploration and were named accordingly.
Similar spelling words for TRADE WINDS
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