rip current

noun

: a strong usually narrow surface current flowing outward from a shore that results from the return flow of waves and wind-driven water

Examples of rip current in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Beachgoers need to be aware of a high rip current risk, in addition to a small craft advisory for the Atlantic waters. —Shane Hinton, CBS News, 8 Feb. 2026

The beaches remain a little risky with life-threatening rip currents expected for a few more days. —Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Feb. 2026

Waves as tall as 10 feet will hit west-facing beaches starting Friday, producing rip currents along the entire San Diego County coastline, the National Weather Service says. —Gary Robbins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Feb. 2026

On a calm day, Ocean River Sports guides visitors via kayak around the Trial Islands, an ecological reserve full of rare plant species in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, riding a powerful rip current in Enterprise Channel. —Winston Ross, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for rip current

• concurrent
• decurrent
• noncurrent
• recurrent
• countercurrent
• intercurrent
• overcurrent
• photocurrent
• undercurrent