GALE

Definitions

1. 1. A strong current of air; a wind between a stiff breeze and a hurricane. The most violent gales are called tempests.
2. 2. A moderate current of air; a breeze. A little gale will soon disperse that cloud. Shak. And winds of gentlest gale Arabian odors fanned From their soft wings. Milton.
3. 3. A state of excitement, passion, or hilarity. The ladies, laughing heartily, were fast getting into what, in New England, is sometimes called a gale. Brooke (Eastford). Topgallant gale (Naut.), one in which a ship may carry her topgallant sails.