What does gustier mean?
“Gustier” is the comparative form of “gusty” and means that something, most often the weather or the wind, has stronger, more frequent, or more forceful gusts. It is especially common in weather forecasts, where a report may warn of “gustier winds” or “gustier conditions” than expected. The word is also used in descriptions of storms, seas, and other situations in which sudden movements of air can affect travel, work, or safety. Although it sometimes conveys an idea of rough or unpleasant weather, its primary meaning is comparative rather than inherently negative. “Gustier” is used in both British and American English, and its structure makes the comparison clear: “gusty” describes a quality, while “gustier” indicates that the quality has become more pronounced. The related superlative is “gustiest.”
adjectiveThe comparative form of gusty: having stronger, more frequent, or more forceful gusts of wind.
- Having stronger, more frequent, or more forceful gusts of wind.
"The weather became gustier as the storm approached."
"The forecast warns of gustier winds along the coast this afternoon."
"As the afternoon grew gustier, the sailors secured the loose lines."
When the forecast turns gustier, the umbrella may be the least of your worries.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of gustier
The English word “gust” comes from Old Norse “gusts,” meaning a sudden blast of wind. English formed “gusty” by adding the suffix “-y” to that noun, and “gustier” is the comparative form of the resulting adjective. The same Germanic root also appears in related words in other Germanic languages.
Related word forms
How gustier is actually used
“Gustier” is an ordinary comparative adjective used in both formal and informal contexts. It is particularly common in weather forecasts, maritime reports, and descriptions of changing wind conditions.
Easily confused with gustier
“Gusty” describes wind characterized by gusts, while “gustier” is the comparative form and indicates a greater degree of gustiness.