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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Hurricanes Imelda and Humberto left a rip current and high surf in their wake that is still making the waters off Florida’s east coast more dangerous for swimmers and boaters, a threat that is expected to continue for a few more days. Alex Harris, Miami Herald, 3 Oct. 2025 If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 2 Oct. 2025 Beaches all along the Eastern seaboard will be plagued by life-threatening rip currents and large swells for much of next week because of Humberto spinning offshore and future Imelda. Briana Waxman, CNN Money, 26 Sep. 2025 Along Central Florida's east coast, the weather service in Melbourne said a high risk of life-threatening rip currents remains along the beaches as long-period swells from distant Hurricane Gabrielle continue to reach the coast, and advised small vessels to use caution. Doyle Rice, USA Today, 25 Sep. 2025 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 4 Oct. 2025.

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