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

Rough surf, rip currents and waves up to 12 feet are also possible in coastal waters from Florida to the Carolinas through Tuesday. — ABC News, 25 Oct. 2026

Coastal flooding and dangerous beach conditions Beachgoers should exercise caution Thursday as a high risk of rip currents makes swimming dangerous along South Florida's Atlantic beaches. — Lissette Gonzalez, CBS News, 22 Oct. 2026

Eastern South Florida beaches are under a high rip current risk until Saturday evening. — Robin Webb, Sun Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026

The most likely time for strong rip currents to occur is a couple hours either side of low tide. — Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 22 Oct. 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