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

1 often 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