becalm

verb

be·​calm bi-ˈkä(l)m How to pronounce becalm (audio)
becalmed; becalming; becalms
Synonyms of becalmnext

transitive verb

1
a
: to keep motionless by lack of wind
b
: to stop the progress of
2
: to make calm : soothe

Synonyms

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Examples of becalm in a Sentence

becalmed at last, she slept soundly for the first time in weeks
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.
Illustration: Arizona State University/PNAS The weakest point in Jacobson’s 2015 paper identified by his critics is a heavy reliance on hydropower plants, which serve as his simulated power grid's backstop energy supply during long periods of weak sun and becalmed winds. — IEEE Spectrum, 19 June 2017 In the summer, that data started to surprise much more positively — but stocks were becalmed during that period. — John Authers | Bloomberg, Washington Post, 13 Nov. 2019

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of becalm was in 1582

Rhymes for becalm

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Cite this Entry

“Becalm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/becalm. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

becalm

verb
be·​calm bi-ˈkäm How to pronounce becalm (audio)
-ˈkälm
: to bring to a stop by lack of wind
a ship becalmed
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