Present participle of gust; blowing in sudden, strong bursts of wind. Describes the action of wind moving forcefully and intermittently.
From Middle English gust, from Old Norse gustr meaning 'gust of wind.' Related to Old Norse gusa meaning 'to gush,' reflecting the sudden, forceful nature of wind bursts.
The word 'gusting' captures the unpredictable, almost emotional quality of wind - it doesn't just blow steadily but comes in passionate bursts. Meteorologists use specific measurements (sustained winds vs. gusts) because these sudden increases can be far more dangerous than steady winds.
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