Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tromba-d'água

noun

/ˈtɾõ.bɐ ˈda.ɡwɐ/

Definition

A tromba-d’água is a natural phenomenon characterized by a violent and destructive water spout, typically seen in rivers and seas, similar to a waterspout but occurring over a body of water.

Examples

The tromba-d’água formed suddenly, catching fishermen off guard.
No one expected such a powerful tromba-d’água to appear so close to the shore.
The news reported several instances of trombas-d’água in the region last summer.

Meaning

In Portuguese, tromba-d’água literally translates to ‘water trunk’ and refers to a column of water, often accompanied by strong winds and treacherous waves, that can cause havoc.