What does microburst mean?
A microburst is a sudden, concentrated downdraft that develops in or near a thunderstorm. As the descending air reaches the ground, it spreads horizontally and can generate exceptionally strong winds over a relatively small area. Its short duration and abrupt onset make a microburst particularly hazardous to aircraft, which may suddenly lose altitude or encounter severe wind shear. The word is also used more informally for a brief eruption of activity, emotion, or attention, as in a microburst of creativity or excitement. Although “downburst” is sometimes used interchangeably, a microburst is generally understood as smaller and more compact. The term is most important in aviation and severe-weather contexts, where brief, localized storms can produce effects comparable to those of much larger wind events.
A short-lived, intense downdraft associated with a thunderstorm, spreading near the ground and producing strong surface winds.
"A microburst caused the aircraft to experience a sudden loss of lift."
The term is standard in meteorology and aviation. It is distinguished from a broader downburst by its relatively small scale and short duration.
A brief, sudden outburst of activity, emotion, or attention.
"There was a microburst of excitement when the results were announced."
This figurative use is informal and most natural in writing or speech that is energetic rather than strictly technical.
The standard plural adds -s.
"Several microbursts were detected near the airport."
A microburst can make an aircraft lose altitude in seconds, turning a storm that appears distant and harmless into an immediate danger.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does microburst come from?
“Microburst” is an English compound formed from the combining form “micro-” and the noun “burst.” The prefix “micro-” comes ultimately from Greek mikros, meaning “small,” while “burst” has an independent English origin. The modern meteorological term developed as a specialized description of a downdraft whose small scale and brief duration made its effects especially abrupt and dangerous.
How microburst is actually used
In meteorology and aviation, the term is technical and specifically denotes a relatively small, short-lived downdraft. Outside those contexts, it is usually figurative and less common.
Easily confused with microburst
A downburst is a broader damaging downdraft, whereas a microburst is distinguished by its smaller horizontal scale and shorter lifespan.