Downdraft

/ˈdaʊnˌdræft/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A downward current of air, especially one that affects the movement of weather systems or aircraft.

The sudden downdraft caused the small plane to lose altitude rapidly.

A downward movement of air associated with a storm, which can result in severe weather phenomena.

Meteorologists warned of dangerous downdrafts during the thunderstorm.

A localized area of descending air within a larger convective system.

The downdraft from the taller cumulonimbus clouds contributed to the formation of microbursts.

From the combination of 'down' and 'draft', referring to the downward movement of air.

downdraft effect

The impact caused by a strong downward air current, particularly in weather phenomena.

product downdraft

The decrease in the demand or market value of a particular product due to various factors.

updraft

An upward current of air, especially in meteorology.

draft

A current of air, often used in the context of ventilation.

A sudden drop in the temperature due to a downdraft.

We felt the downdraft hit us like ice when we entered the cave.

A turbulent, chaotic situation.

The meeting turned into a downdraft with everyone talking over each other.