tempest
Tempest (noun) means a violent storm, especially one with fierce winds. Example: “The ship was tossed about by a fierce tempest.”
How to Use Tempest
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA violent storm, or figuratively, a sudden burst of trouble or emotion.
Mostly literary or old-fashioned now — everyday English usually says "storm."
Word Forms
tempested past tense, tempests plural, Tempests plural, tempests singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The ship was tossed about by a fierce _____.
Etymology
From Old French tempeste, from Latin tempestas, "storm, season, weather" — from tempus, "time."
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “tempest” mean?
The word “tempest” means a violent storm, especially one with fierce winds. In plain terms, a violent storm, or figuratively, a sudden burst of trouble or emotion.
How do you pronounce “tempest”?
“Tempest” is pronounced TEHM-puhst (/ˈtɛm.pəst/ in IPA).
How do you use “tempest” in a sentence?
Here is “tempest” used in a sentence: “The ship was tossed about by a fierce tempest.”
What part of speech is “tempest”?
“Tempest” is a noun.
Where does the word “tempest” come from?
The word “tempest” comes from Latin. From Old French tempeste, from Latin tempestas, "storm, season, weather" — from tempus, "time.".
Is “tempest” a common word?
“Tempest” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “tempest” have?
“Tempest” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a violent storm, especially one with fierce winds.