Definition of gales:
(n) :
(meteorology) A very strong wind, more than a breeze, less than a storm; number 7 through to 9 winds on the 12-step Beaufort scale.
(n) :
An outburst, especially of laughter.
(v) :
(nautical) To sail, or sail fast.
(n) :
A shrub, also called sweet gale or bog myrtle (Myrica gale), that grows on moors and fens.
(v) :
(intransitive, now chiefly dialectal) To cry; groan; croak.
(v) :
(intransitive, of a person, now chiefly dialectal) To talk.