Squall

Squall is a noun that refers to a sudden gust of wind.  Our word of the day has been around since the mid-17th century. It is thought to be an alteration of the word squeal, in imitation of the sound made by a strong gust. Here’s an example: As if the rain wasn’t bad enough, that squall nearly knocked me off my feet. The last thing you want is to be thrown by a strong gale into a giant puddle.