acclimation

noun

ac·​cli·​ma·​tion ˌa-klə-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce acclimation (audio)
-ˌklī-
: the process or result of acclimating
especially : physiological adjustment by an organism to environmental change

Examples of acclimation in a Sentence

a period of acclimation to the region's rising temperatures
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This is an acclimation process as much as anything. Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 9 May 2025 Leonard can be part of the support staff and prioritize NHL acclimation at his pace without feeling rushed to produce. Fluto Shinzawa, New York Times, 2 Apr. 2025 Virtually all rookie pitchers — even those with previous professional experience in Japan — go through such an acclimation period, trying to refine raw talent into tangible results. Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 27 Apr. 2025 His route running and usually reliable hands (not last season) could help a team as a No. 2 receiver — especially if that team can convince itself that his problems stemmed from a wrist injury and slow acclimation to the Bills’ playbook. Vic Tafur, The Athletic, 24 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for acclimation

Word History

Etymology

acclim(ate) + -ation

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of acclimation was in 1801

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Acclimation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acclimation. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

acclimation

noun
ac·​cli·​ma·​tion ˌak-lə-ˈmā-shən, -ˌlī- How to pronounce acclimation (audio)
: acclimatization especially by physiological adjustment of an organism to environmental change
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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