Monsoon
/mɒnˈsuːn/noun
A seasonal wind system that reverses direction and often brings major changes in rainfall.
Did you know?Its name traveled from Arabic through Portuguese because Indian Ocean sailors relied on the winds’ seasonal reversal to plan voyages, trade, and survival.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
monsōn
“A possible early source connected with seasonal change, though the direct pathway is debated.”
10th–11th Century
Arabic
mawsim
“Season or appointed time, especially a season of trade or pilgrimage.”
16th Century
Portuguese
monção
“The seasonal wind of the Indian Ocean, borrowed from Arabic maritime usage.”
17th Century
Dutch
monssoen
“The periodically reversing wind system encountered in Asian seas.”
17th Century
English
monsoon
“A seasonal wind, especially one associated with the Indian Ocean and South Asian rains.”
Modern English
English
monsoon
“A seasonal wind pattern, commonly referring to the rains associated with it.”
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