tropical storm

noun

: a tropical cyclone with strong winds of over 39 miles (63 kilometers) per hour but less than hurricane intensity

Examples of tropical storm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Saharan Air Layer can suppress thunderstorm development and increase atmospheric stability across parts of the tropical Atlantic, temporarily reducing the odds that disturbances develop into tropical storms or hurricanes. Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 29 June 2026 Mekkhala was a tropical storm in the Philippine Sea early Saturday Japan time, the Joint Typhoon Warning Center said in its latest advisory. William B. Davis, New York Times, 21 June 2026 Safety and health experts say residents preparing for hurricanes and tropical storms should be mindful of flooding that could lead to both short- and long-term hazards to their health and property. Kelly McCarthy, ABC News, 19 June 2026 Shortly after the migrant transfer announcement, the National Hurricane Center said that the first tropical storm of this year's hurricane season had formed off the Texas coast. Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for tropical storm

Word History

First Known Use

1809, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tropical storm was in 1809

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Cite this Entry

“Tropical storm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tropical%20storm. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

tropical storm

noun
: a cyclone in or originating in the tropics that has very strong winds of less than hurricane strength

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