a cold spell

[quietdandelion]

The weather got warm again after a cold spell, making the ice on the lake start to break up.



I can't figure out the meaning of "a cold spell." Does it refer to "a cold front" or "a cold period" or something else? Thanks.

 

[nichec]

The weather got warm again after a cold spell, making the ice on the lake start to break up.



I can't figure out the meaning of "a cold spell." Does it refer to "a cold front" or "a cold period" or something else? Thanks.

Judging from the context, it means a period of time that's very cold. It's so cold that people start to think the weather is under a "cold spell". (I think)

 

[anothersmith]

Nichec is partially right; it means a period of time, but does not refer to a magic "spell."

Here's the relevant definition from MerriamWebster.com:

3 a : an indeterminate period of time <waited a spell before advancing>; also : a continuous period of time <did a spell in prison> b : a stretch of a specified type of weather

 

[nichec]

Nichec is partially right; it means a period of time, but does not refer to a magic "spell."

Here's the relevant definition from MerriamWebster.com:

3 a : an indeterminate period of time <waited a spell before advancing>; also : a continuous period of time <did a spell in prison> b : a stretch of a specified type of weather

Ohoh, thanks!

I learn something new here everyday!

 

[quietdandelion]

Thanks, my dear friends.

 

[mjscott]

A spell is a certain period of time. Sometimes when I would be working with my grandmother, she would say, "Let's rest a spell before we finish this task."

"Remember that cold spell we had last spring when all the flowers froze?"

 

[quietdandelion]

Thanks, mjscott, for your grandma's talk. It impresses me deeply.

 

[anothersmith]

A spell is a certain period of time. Sometimes when I would be working with my grandmother, she would say, "Let's rest a spell before we finish this task."

"Remember that cold spell we had last spring when all the flowers froze?"

That reminds me of my grandmother, too! I don't think I've heard anyone say "let's rest a spell" since she passed away.

It just struck me that although people still say "cold spell" they never say "hot spell." It's always "heat wave."