1. very strong winds, typically between 32-63 mph on the Beaufort scale
Usage: meteorological term; plural of gale
2. outbursts of laughter or other emotions
Usage: figurative use; often in phrase ‘gales of laughter’

Examples

• The ship struggled against fierce gales during the storm.
• Weather forecasters warned of gales reaching 50 mph.
• The old oak tree was uprooted by the winter gales.
• Gales of laughter erupted from the audience.
• Her joke sent the children into gales of giggles.
• The comedian’s performance triggered gales of applause.
• Coastal areas were battered by successive gales.