1. a very strong wind
Usage: meteorological
2. a sudden loud burst of laughter or other sound
Usage: often in phrase ‘gales of laughter’

Examples

• The ship struggled against the fierce gale.
• Weather forecasters warned of gale-force winds.
• The storm brought gales of up to 70 mph.
• Her joke sent the audience into gales of laughter.
• Gales of applause filled the theater.
• The sailors battened down the hatches before the gale hit.