Fogbank

/ˈfɑːɡbæŋk/ noun

Definition

A dense mass of fog, especially when it appears as a visible wall or bank rolling in from the sea.

Etymology

From 'fog' (water vapor condensed near the ground) + 'bank' (a sloping mass or pile). 'Fog' comes from Old Norse 'fok' and 'bank' from Old Norse 'bakki,' both terms familiar to northern seafarers.

Kelly Says

A fogbank rolling toward shore is one of nature's most dramatic phenomena—sailors feared them because a wall of fog could completely hide rocks and cliffs, turning a clear day dangerous in seconds.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.