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
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There will also be a dangerous high risk of rip currents from Tuesday to Friday. Lissette Gonzalez, CBS News, 20 Apr. 2026 Strong longshore currents can sweep swimmers and surfers into rip currents, piers, jetties and other hazardous areas. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 19 Apr. 2026 But this season, dozens of those stands sit empty, as the county scrambles to fill 45 critical roles — a shortage that turned tragic this week when two people drowned while attempting to rescue a child caught in a rip current. Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 17 Apr. 2026 There is a moderate risk of rip currents at area beaches. Garfield Hylton, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rip current

Word History

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rip current was in 1936

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Cite this Entry

“Rip current.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rip%20current. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

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