gale

/ɡeɪl/
noun
  1. A very strong wind, typically between 34 and 47 knots (39–54 mph) on the Beaufort scale.
    • Sailors were warned to stay in port because of the approaching gale.
    • The gale knocked over several trees and power lines.
    • We could hear the gale howling outside all night long.
  2. A sudden loud outburst, especially of laughter or sound.
    • The children let out a gale of giggles when the puppy did a trick.
    • A gale of applause followed the pianist's final note.
    • A gale of laughter erupted from the audience at the comedian's joke.
Antonyms