squall

Meteorology. a sudden, strong wind of brief duration that is sustained for at least two minutes at a speed of at least 16 knots (18 miles per hour, 8 meters per second), often accompanied by precipitation, and then rapidly diminishes in speed: We can’t rule out some short spells of heavy rain, as occasional squalls from the north are expected later today.: Compare gust¹ (def. 1).

Nautical. any local storm on navigable water that is typically sudden and severe, with strong winds often accompanied by precipitation and sometimes thunder and lightning: He got soaked in a squall out in the bay, but thank heavens his skiff was just a few dozen yards from shore.

Meteorology, Nautical. to blow as a squall: They say it may squall, but I say we should go ahead with our picnic plans.

to cry or scream loudly and violently: The hungry baby began to squall.

to utter in a screaming tone.

the act or sound of squalling: The baby's squall was heard next door.

a sudden strong wind or brief turbulent storm

any sudden commotion or show of temper

(intr) to blow in a squall

(intr) to cry noisily; yell

a shrill or noisy yell or howl