rip current

noun

: a strong usually narrow surface current flowing outward from a shore that results from the return flow of waves and wind-driven water

Examples of rip current in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tornadoes were possible in parts of Virginia and North Carolina, and life-threatening surf and rip current conditions were expected to continue along the Gulf and southeastern Atlantic coasts. — Arkansas Online, 12 Oct. 2026 Tornadoes were possible in parts of Virginia and North Carolina, and life-threatening surf and rip current conditions were expected to continue along the gulf and southeastern Atlantic coasts. — Sophie Bates, Los Angeles Times, 11 Oct. 2026 Dangerous and life- threatening rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. — Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 10 Oct. 2026 The rip current risk remains through Saturday evening for Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach, the weather service said. — Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rip current

Word History

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rip current was in 1936

Rhymes for rip current

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Browse Nearby Words

rip cord
rip current
ripe
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Cite this Entry

“Rip current.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rip%20current. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on rip current

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about rip current

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