updraft

noun

up·​draft ˈəp-ˌdraft How to pronounce updraft (audio)
-ˌdräft
: an upward movement of gas (such as air)

Examples of updraft in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Combine this with wind shear, and strong updrafts can start the rotations. — Karl Schneider, IndyStar, 11 Mar. 2026 The environment will be supportive of any robust updraft turning strong or severe. — Trey Fulbright, CBS News, 1 Apr. 2026 Hail is created when strong updrafts of air are pushed up into the colder atmosphere, freezing water droplets and pushing them around, making the droplets bigger and bigger. — Laura Schulte, jsonline.com, 23 Apr. 2026 Such clouds are also associated with storms and potentially dangerous updrafts and downdrafts of wind. — Charlie Gile, NBC news, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for updraft

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1887, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of updraft was circa 1887

Rhymes for updraft

See All Rhymes for updraft

Browse Nearby Words

updo
updraft
updraft kiln
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Cite this Entry

“Updraft.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/updraft. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

updraft

noun
up·​draft ˈəp-ˌdraft How to pronounce updraft (audio)
-ˌdrȧft
: an upward movement of gas (as air)

More from Merriam-Webster on updraft

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about updraft

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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