blizzard

[ bliz-erd ]

noun

1. Meteorology.
   1. a storm, technically an extratropical cyclone, with dry, driving snow, strong winds, and intense cold.
   2. a heavy and prolonged snowstorm covering a wide area.
2. an inordinately large amount all at one time:

   a blizzard of Christmas cards.

verb (used without object)

1. to snow as a blizzard:

   Looks as though it's going to blizzard tonight.

blizzard

/ ˈblɪzəd /

noun

1. a strong bitterly cold wind accompanied by a widespread heavy snowfall

blizzard

/ blĭz′ərd /

1. A violent snowstorm with winds blowing at a minimum speed of 56 km (35 mi) per hour and visibility of less 400 m (0.25 mi) for three hours.

Other Words From

• bliz·zard·y bliz·zard·ly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of blizzard¹

An Americanism first recorded in 1820–30 for earlier meaning “violent blow, shot”; compare British dialectal (Midlands) blizzer, blizzom “blaze, flash, anything that blinds momentarily”; probably expressive formations with components of blast, blaze ¹, bluster, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of blizzard¹

C19: of uncertain origin

Related Words

• gale
• precipitation
• squall