noun a downward current or draft of air, especially one in a chimney or furnace
In cooking, a downdraft ventilation system is used to pull smoke, steam, and odors down and away from the cooking surface, providing a cleaner cooking environment.
In meteorology, a downdraft is a downward current of air within a storm system, such as a thunderstorm, that can lead to severe weather conditions.
In aviation, pilots need to be aware of downdrafts, especially when flying near thunderstorms, as they can cause sudden changes in altitude and airspeed.
In industrial engineering, downdraft tables are used to remove fumes, dust, and other contaminants from the air in a workspace, improving air quality and worker safety.
In the context of writing, 'downdraft' can refer to a negative trend or decrease in sales or popularity of a particular genre or style of writing.
Psychologists may use the term 'downdraft' to describe a decrease in a client's mood or mental well-being, indicating a worsening of their emotional state.
Meteorologists use 'downdraft' to describe a downward current of air within a storm system, often associated with severe weather events such as thunderstorms or tornadoes.
Pilots may encounter 'downdrafts' during flight, which are sudden downward gusts of wind that can affect the aircraft's altitude and stability.