magnetic storm

noun

: a marked temporary disturbance of the earth's magnetic field held to be related to sunspots

Examples of magnetic storm 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.
They are caused by magnetic storms that have been triggered by solar activity, such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections. — Chad Murphy, Cincinnati Enquirer, 12 Nov. 2025 These flares are often associated with solar magnetic storms known as coronal mass ejections and can sometimes be as strong as a billion hydrogen bombs. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 19 June 2025 Northern lights, or the aurora borealis, occur when solar activity — such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections — triggers magnetic storms. — Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 Sep. 2025 These magnetic storms can occasionally be intense enough to interfere with the operation of high-voltage electricity lines. — IEEE Spectrum, 24 Apr. 2020 See All Example Sentences for magnetic storm

Word History

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of magnetic storm was in 1836

Rhymes for magnetic storm

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Browse Nearby Words

magnetic sound
magnetic storm
magnetic survey
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Cite this Entry

“Magnetic storm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/magnetic%20storm. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on magnetic storm

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about magnetic storm

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