wind shear

American  

[wind] / wɪnd /

noun

1. the rate at which wind velocity changes from point to point in a given direction.

2. a condition, dangerous to aircraft, in which the speed or direction of the wind changes abruptly.

---

wind shear British  

/ wɪnd /

noun

1. stress on an aircraft in an area in which winds of different speeds and directions are close together

---

wind shear Scientific  

1. A change in wind direction and speed between slightly different altitudes, especially a sudden downdraft. Depending on its scale, wind shear can cause a variety of effects, from minor turbulence to tornadoes. Wind shear caused by interactions between oceanic and atmospheric winds can be so strong that it can dissipate hurricanes.

2. See also shear force

---

Etymology

Origin of wind shear

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

wind shear

Warm waters provide fuel for storms, and El Nino's effect on the atmosphere leaves little vertical wind shear over the Pacific, creating favorable conditions for hurricanes to intensify.

From Barron's ● Sep. 2, 2026

The reason this area is key is because it hosts the best wind shear and instability.

From BBC ● Oct. 9, 2024

"Yes, more water vapor in the air can foster stronger convection, but a tornado is a very local feature and requires a very specific set of meteorological conditions, such as the right wind shear."

From Salon ● Jul. 22, 2024

Officials attributed the stormy Atlantic outlook to a confluence of factors including record-warm ocean temperatures; reduced Atlantic trade winds and wind shear; and the development of La Niña.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 25, 2024

As it did, wind shear blew it laterally off course.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir