harmattan

[ hahr-muh-tan ]

noun

1. (on the west coast of Africa) a dry, parching land breeze, charged with dust.

harmattan

/ hɑːˈmætən /

noun

1. a dry dusty wind from the Sahara blowing towards the W African coast, esp from November to March

Word History and Origins

Origin of harmattan¹

1665–75; said to be < Twi haramata

Word History and Origins

Origin of harmattan¹

C17: from Twi haramata, perhaps from Arabic harām forbidden thing; see harem

Example Sentences

The mean temperature in the dry season, when the “harmattan” is frequent, is 62 Fahr., in the wet season 86.

From Project Gutenberg

The Harmattan, a very dry east wind from the African continent, occasionally makes itself felt.

From Project Gutenberg

A hot wind, like the harmattan of the Guinea coast, rose and drove the sand before it in clouds.

From Project Gutenberg

This harmattan, by the way, is a bit of a meteorological mystery.

From Project Gutenberg

The harmattan prevails for several days in succession, and alternates with winds from the south and south-west.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• sandstorm