cold wave

noun

1
: an unusually large and rapid drop in temperature over a short period of time (such as 24 hours)
2
: a permanent wave set by a chemical preparation without the use of heat

Examples of cold wave in a Sentence

the unseasonable cold wave in the Northeast has already put a strain on oil supplies
Recent Examples on the Web
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Additionally, some later writings describing severe winters and cold waves support this thesis. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 12 Feb. 2025 According to historical trends from the National Weather Service (NWS), similar cold waves have often coincided with high-pressure systems that funnel Arctic air into the mid-Atlantic region. Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025 The first cold wave is moving in this week, a second early next week on the heels of a significant Plains to Mid-Atlantic winter storm, and additional ones after that. Cuneyt Dil, Axios, 3 Jan. 2025 Additionally, some later writings describing severe winters and cold waves support this thesis. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 12 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cold wave

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cold wave was in 1876

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Cite this Entry

“Cold wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cold%20wave. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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