1. cold, dry northerly winds that blow from the mountains, especially in southern France and the western Mediterranean
Usage: meteorological; regional

Examples

• The tramontanes brought clear skies but bitter cold to the coastal villages.
• Sailors in the Mediterranean know to prepare for the strong tramontanes that sweep down from the Alps.
• The tramontanes can reach speeds of over 60 miles per hour during winter months.
• Local farmers welcome the tramontanes because they help clear away fog and humidity.
• The tramontanes are most common between October and April in southern France.