downdraft

noun

down·​draft ˈdau̇n-ˌdraft 

1

: a downward current of gas (such as air during a thunderstorm)

2

: decline sense 1

an economic downdraft

Examples of downdraft in a Sentence

a strong downdraft from the thunderstorm

Recent Examples on the Web

While shares of Goldman Sachs and Wells Fargo have been caught up in the downdraft, their businesses should be largely insulated from these headwinds. —Morgan Chittum, CNBC, 15 Mar. 2026

As the thunderstorm nears its end, the downdraft is stronger than the updraft, which had been the storm’s source of warm, moist air. —Mary Wasson, Austin American Statesman, 5 Mar. 2026

Addressing a fireplace downdraft can make your home more comfortable, lower your energy bill, and ensure your fireplace is safe to use in the future. —Kamron Sanders, The Spruce, 4 Mar. 2026

The convection drives huge, lashing winds through the atmosphere, with violent updrafts and downdrafts. —Burkhard Bilger, New Yorker, 2 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for downdraft

• abaft
• aircraft
• camshaft
• crankshaft
• engraft
• priestcraft
• redraft
• schoolcraft
• spacecraft
• stagecraft
• statecraft
• updraft

Kids Definition

downdraft

noun

down·​draft -ˌdraft 

-ˌdrȧft

: a downward current of gas (as air in a chimney or during a thunderstorm)