Definition

A hot wind that comes from the Sahara desert and blows across Egypt, usually occurring from late March to early May.

Example

The khamsin made the air feel even hotter during the spring months in Egypt.

Conversation

Have you heard about the khamsin happening this week?

Yeah, I read that it’s going to be really hot and dusty.

I hope it doesn’t last too long because I hate that weather.

Same here! I prefer the mild days over the khamsin.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Khamsin originates from Arabic "خمسين" (khamsīn), meaning fifty. It refers to a dry, hot wind that typically blows in the Middle East for fifty days during the spring.

Memory Tip

Think of the Arabic word for fifty ('khamsīn') to remember that 'khamsin' describes a hot wind that lasts for about fifty days.

Visually Confused Words