cold wave

noun

1. Meteorology. a rapid and considerable drop in temperature, usually affecting a large area.
2. a permanent wave in the hair set by special chemical solutions without the aid of any heating device.

cold wave

noun

1. meteorol a sudden spell of low temperatures over a wide area, often following the passage of a cold front
2. hairdressing a permanent wave made by chemical agents applied at normal temperatures

Word History and Origins

Origin of cold wave¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

He has already seen a surge in patients complaining of respiratory tract illnesses - “particularly worrying because we have not yet seen our first cold wave of the winter season”.

From BBC

The researchers specifically looked at large heat and cold waves as opposed to localized events because they can impose greater stress across the entire power grid.

From Science Daily

If there is any cold wave once the spring arrives, bats may not be ready to face low-temperature periods.

From Science Daily

No fatalities from the latest cold wave have been reported.

From Seattle Times

A landslide in southwestern China’s Yunnan Province on Monday left at least two people dead and another 45 people buried, according to Chinese state media, as a cold wave blanketed much of the country.

From New York Times

Related Words

• cold snap
• cold spell