Main Entry:

¹arc·tic

Pronunciation:

\ˈärk-tik, ˈär-tik\

Function:

adjective

Etymology:

Middle English artik, from Latin arcticus, from Greek arktikos, from arktos bear, Ursa Major, north; akin to Latin ursus bear, Sanskrit ṛkṣa

Date:

14th century

1often capitalized : of, or relating to, or suitable for use at the north pole or the region near it <arctic waters> <arctic animals> <arctic clothing>2 a: bitter cold : frigid <arctic air> b: cold in temper or mood <an arctic smile>

— arc·ti·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb