How Do You Spell GALE FORCE?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈe͡ɪl fˈɔːs] (IPA)

The phrase 'gale force' refers to the measurement of wind speeds that reach a minimum of 32.6 knots, or 60 kilometers per hour. The word 'gale' is pronounced as [geɪl], with the 'g' being a voiced velar stop and 'a' being a long vowel sound. The word 'force' is pronounced as [fɔːs], with the 'o' being a long vowel sound and the 'r' being silent. Together, the phrase is pronounced as [geɪl fɔːs], with the emphasis on the first syllable of 'force'.

GALE FORCE Meaning and Definition

1. "Gale force" is an adjective used to describe a very strong and powerful wind, typically characterized by its intensity and speed. These winds usually occur during stormy weather conditions and can have a significant impact on the environment and human activities.

   A gale force wind is generally defined as having an average speed of at least 34 knots (approximately 39 miles per hour or 63 kilometers per hour) on the Beaufort wind scale. This level of wind intensity is capable of causing considerable damage, especially to structures and objects that are not well secured. Gale force winds can uproot trees, damage roofs, cause power outages, and generate dangerously high waves at sea.

   The term "gale force" is derived from the Old Norse word "galinn," meaning "mad" or "furious." It emphasizes the extreme nature of these winds, conveying a sense of their potential danger and the chaos they can bring. Gale force winds are often associated with storms, including hurricanes, cyclones, and severe thunderstorms.

   In weather forecasts, you may come across phrases such as "gale force winds expected" or "gale warning in effect." These statements typically serve as a warning to individuals and authorities to be prepared and take necessary precautions when venturing outdoors or engaging in activities that could be affected by such strong winds.

Common Misspellings for GALE FORCE

• gale-foorce
• gale-forcce
• gale-forse
• gale-fource
• galefource
• galeforece
• galefoarce
• Gale foice
• Gaile force
• Gale ferce
• Gall force
• Gale ferece

Etymology of GALE FORCE

The term "gale force" originates from Middle English, derived from the Old Norse word "galinn" which means "mad" or "furious". In Old English, it evolved into "galan" which refers to "to sing" or "to chant loudly". Eventually, "gale" came to represent a strong wind, particularly one with the intensity to produce rough sea conditions. The phrase "gale force" specifically emerged in the late 19th century, signifying the strength of wind required to be classified as a gale on the Beaufort scale.

Plural form of GALE FORCE is GALE FORCES