spindrift

noun spin·drift \ ˈspin-ˌdrift \

Editor's Note: Did You Know?

Definition of spindrift

1 : sea spray; especially : spray blown from waves during a gale

2 : fine wind-borne snow or sand

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Recent Examples of spindrift from the Web

A foot of new snow had fallen the night before, and spindrift whipped off La Meije, a sea of icy blue glaciers pocked by crevasses and cliffs unfurling down its flanks.

— kelley mcmillan manley, New York Times, "On These French Ski Slopes, You’re on Your Own," 20 Nov. 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'spindrift.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Did You Know?

Spindrift first set sail in the mid-18th century under Scottish command. During its first voyage, it was known by the Scottish moniker "speendrift." Speen meant "to drive before a strong wind," so a "speendrift" was a drift of spray during such action. In 1823, English speakers recruited the word, but signed it up as "spindrift." At that time, its sole duty was to describe the driving sprays at sea. However, English speakers soon realized that "spindrift" had potential to serve on land as well, and the word was sent ashore to describe driving snow and sand. Today, "spindrift" still serves us commendably at sea and on land.