Spindrift
/ˈspɪn.drɪft/noun
Fine spray blown from the crests of waves by the wind.
Did you know?Spindrift is an old Scots/English coastal word, and its first element likely refers to spinning or whirling, making the image of the sea itself seem like it’s being enchanted into motion.
Etymological Timeline
Old Norse / Scots
Scots
spindrift
“Sea spray blown off breaking waves”
Early Modern English
English
spindrift
“Wind-driven spray from the sea”
19th Century
English
spindrift
“Poetic term for spray or foam blown from waves”
Modern English
English
spindrift
“Fine spray lifted from the crests of waves by wind”