popcorn storm
n.— «I’ve seen enough “popcorn” storms to appreciate how difficult forecasting really is. These are storms that pop up, and then half an hour later they’re gone.» —“Lightning-quick network keeps tabs whenever it strikes” by Jon Van Chicago Tribune July 22, 1991. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
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In the 15th century, the word respair meant “to have hope again.” Although this word fell out of use, it’s among dozens collected in a new book of soothing vocabulary for troubled times. Plus, baseball slang: If a batter...