whiteout

noun

white·​out ˈ(h)wīt-ˌau̇t 

: a surface weather condition in a snow-covered area (such as a polar region) in which no object casts a shadow, the horizon cannot be seen, and only dark objects are discernible

also : a blizzard that severely reduces visibility

Examples of whiteout in a Sentence

We got caught in a whiteout.

Recent Examples on the Web

Wind gusts up to 35 mph could also create blowing snow and whiteout conditions. —Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 30 Nov. 2025

With heavy snow and gusty winds, whiteout conditions and very dangerous travel conditions are likely across the Midwest. —Mason Leath, ABC News, 28 Nov. 2025

Snow squalls Friday are forecast to bring quick bursts of heavy snow and dangerous, whiteout conditions for driving were possible across the interior Northeast, the weather service said. —CBS News, 28 Nov. 2025

Northern Erie and Genesee Counties in New York might get up to 7 inches—with the highest snowfall likely to land south and east of the City of Buffalo and in southwest Genesee County—and 50 mph winds by Thursday afternoon, producing drifts and whiteout conditions. —Amanda Greenwood, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

white entry 1 + -out (in blackout)

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for whiteout

• roundabout
• runabout
• sauerkraut
• thereabout
• turnabout
• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout