Main Entry:

at·mo·sphere

Pronunciation:

\ˈat-mə-ˌsfir\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

New Latin atmosphaera, from Greek atmos vapor + Latin sphaera sphere

Date:

1677

1 a: the gaseous envelope of a celestial body (as a planet) b: the whole mass of air surrounding the earth2: the air of a locality3: a surrounding influence or environment <an atmosphere of hostility>4: a unit of pressure equal to the pressure of the air at sea level or approximately 14.7 pounds per square inch (101,325 pascals)5 a: the overall aesthetic effect of a work of art b: an intriguing or singular tone, effect, or appeal <an inn with atmosphere>

— at·mo·sphered \-ˌsfird\ adjective