updraft

American  

[uhp-draft, -drahft] / ˈʌpˌdræft, -ˌdrɑft /

noun

1. the movement upward of air or other gas.

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updraft Scientific  

/ ŭp′drăft′ /

1. An upward current of warm, moist air. With enough moisture, the current may visibly condense into a cumulus or cumulonimbus cloud.

2. Compare downdraft

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Etymology

Origin of updraft

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; up-, draft

Example Sentences

Traders will recall that Oracle’s earnings report last September created a massive updraft of more than 100 points in the stock — which it quickly gave back and then some.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 5, 2026

That happens when a sudden updraft in humid, moist air leads to a heavy and localised burst of rain.

From BBC • Nov. 1, 2025

Small ice balls start forming and as they try fall towards the Earth’s surface, they can get tossed back up to the top of the storm by another updraft.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 14, 2024

That months-long updraft in yields saw a sharp reversal last week after the U.S.

From Reuters • Nov. 8, 2023

A leaf spiraled toward him on an updraft.

From "Frightful's Mountain" by Jean Craighead George