Tempest

/ˈtɛmpɪst/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A violent windy storm.

The tempest swept through the town, uprooting trees and damaging homes.

A tumultuous or turbulent situation.

The company faced a tempest of criticism after the controversial decision.

A strong or violent disturbance.

He found himself caught in a tempest of emotions as he tried to process the news.

Middle English, from Old French 'tempeste', from Latin 'tempestas' meaning 'season, weather, storm'.

tempest in a teapot:

A small or insignificant event that has been exaggerated.

ride out the tempest:

To endure a difficult situation without succumbing to it.

A major argument or conflict.

They had a tempest over the plans for the project.

A dramatic or intense situation.

The party turned into a complete tempest as tensions flared.