Wind
WIND (noun), WYND (verb)
/wɪnd/ (noun), /waɪnd/ (verb)
The perceptible natural movement of air, especially in the form of a current of air blowing from a particular direction.
As a verb, 'wind' (pronounced WYND) means to move in a twisting or curving course, or to wrap something around something else.
The story behind the word. The word 'wind' is an ancient one, stemming from the Old English 'wind' and ultimately from Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European roots. It has cognates in many languages (like German 'Wind' and Latin 'ventus'), reflecting a universal human experience of moving air. Its meaning has remained remarkably stable throughout history.
Word relationships
- breeze: A light, gentle wind.
- gust: A sudden, strong rush of wind.
- calm: Absence of wind or disturbance.
- stillness: Lack of movement, including air.
Word family
- windy (adjective): Characterized by strong winds.
- windward (adjective/noun): On the side facing the wind.
Collocations
- strong wind
- light wind
- gust of wind
- wind direction
- wind power
Idioms & expressions
- get wind of (hear a rumor)
- in the wind (about to happen)
- second wind (new burst of energy)
Example sentences
- "The strong wind made it difficult to walk against, whipping leaves and dust into the air." Describing outdoor conditions.
- "The narrow mountain road began to wind steeply upwards, offering breathtaking views." Describing a path (verb usage).
Memory hook
Think of a 'WIND' chime making music as the air moves. Wind chime music
When not to use
Do not confuse the noun 'wind' (air movement) with the verb 'wind' (to coil or turn).
Fun facts
- Wind is caused by differences in atmospheric pressure; air flows from high pressure to low pressure.
- The fastest wind speed ever recorded on Earth (not in a tornado) was 408 km/h (253 mph) on Barrow Island, Australia, during Cyclone Olivia in 1996.
Related words
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.