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

At least three hurricanes have developed in the central and eastern Pacific since July, including Hurricanes Fausto and Genevieve, which generated life-threatening waves, strong rip currents and high surf warnings for Southern California. — Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 18 Aug. 2026

Two women were taken to hospitals after getting rescued from a rip current off the shore of Laguna Beach over the weekend, authorities said. — Nathaniel Percy, Oc Register, 18 Aug. 2026

There were no coastal watches or warnings in effect for Hawaii on Monday as cleanup efforts were expected to begin, but life-threatening surf and rip current conditions remained, according to the National Hurricane Center. — ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026

The rip current risk drops to low today, down from high over the past several days. — Scott Withers, CBS News, 16 Aug. 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