derecho

noun

de·​re·​cho də-ˈrā-(ˌ)chō How to pronounce derecho (audio)
plural derechos
: a large fast-moving complex of thunderstorms with powerful straight-line winds that cause widespread destruction

Examples of derecho 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.
One week of severe thunderstorms, including a possible derecho, nearly doubled the tornado total in Ohio for the year. — Chad Murphy, Cincinnati Enquirer, 1 Sep. 2026 The funds will go to City Life Center and Angel by Nature that’s on the ground aiding communities most affected following the record flooding caused by a derecho storm that destroyed infrastructure, leaving more than 1000 people unhoused. — Caché McClay, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2026 After the derecho, CommuniTree partners began discussing how hard the region’s tree canopy was hit. — Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026 In addition to the derecho, there were also tornadoes, including a 26-mile-long EF2 twister that touched down in Illinois and went into Indiana, according to the National Weather Service. — Phil Helsel, NBC news, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for derecho

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, straight (contrasted with tornado, taken to mean "turned"), from Latin directus — more at direct entry 1

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of derecho was in 1888

Rhymes for derecho

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Browse Nearby Words

derechazo
derecho
deregulate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Derecho.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/derecho. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

derecho

noun
de·​re·​cho
də-ˈrā-(ˌ)chō
plural derechos
: a large fast-moving complex of thunderstorms with powerful winds that move in a straight line and that cause widespread destruction
Etymology

from Spanish, "straight" (opposed to tornado, taken to mean "turned" in Spanish)

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