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Cold front

UK //kəʊld frʌnt// US //koʊld frʌnt// Pronunciation

Definition

A boundary between a mass of cold air and warm air, often causing storms.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A mass of cold air that moves into a region, often bringing colder weather.

Examples

• The cold front is expected to bring snow to the area this weekend.
• Meteorologists are tracking the cold front moving across the Midwest.
• After the cold front passed, temperatures dropped significantly overnight.
• A cold front can disrupt local weather patterns and lead to drastic changes.
• We need to prepare for the cold front that is approaching our state.

Usage notes

Used in meteorology to refer to weather changes. It's appropriate in both casual and formal discussions about weather.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun phrase

Memory hint

Imagine a line of chilly air rushing in, pushing away warm air like a soldier on the front line.

Collocations

• approaching cold front
• cold front warning
• move in with a cold front
• cold front system

Synonyms

• cold wave
• chill
• arctic air mass

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'warm front' as the opposite type of weather change.
• Used as a verb incorrectly, should only be a noun.