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

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 Word Forms

• blizzardy adjective
• blizzardly 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

Example Sentences

Craig said: "She faced snow, ice, a blizzard at the summit and a long descent in the dark - but she never once gave up."

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Gusty winds with occasional blizzard conditions, and potentially a few lightning strikes, could come with the snow showers, posing additional hazards.

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Our television critic guides you through the blizzard of holiday programming available to watch from the comfort of your home.

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Gusty winds leading to blizzards and thunderstorms - thundersnow - may bring additional hazards.

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This sparked a blizzard of reports about which taxes will change.

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Related Words

• gale 
• precipitation 
• squall