atmosphere

noun

at·mo·sphere | \ ˈat-mə-ˌsfir

Definition of atmosphere

1a : the gaseous envelope of a celestial body (such as a planet)

b : the whole mass of air surrounding the earth

2 : the air of a locality the stuffy atmosphere of the waiting room

3 : 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)

5a : the overall aesthetic effect of a work of art

b : an intriguing or singular tone, effect, or appeal an inn with atmosphere

Other Words from atmosphere Synonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about atmosphere

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Examples of atmosphere in a Sentence

Experts have noticed changes in the atmosphere. Meteoroids burn up as they pass through Earth's atmosphere. The planets have different atmospheres. a country inn with lots of atmosphere The food was good but the restaurant has no atmosphere.

Recent Examples on the Web

Far from the packed resort beaches of Cancun, Cabo’s nonstop party atmosphere and the hipsterdom of Tulum, San Miguel de Allende exists as its own singular slice of Mexican life. — Nevin Martell, Washington Post, "In central Mexico, a retreat that’s perfect for families," 14 June 2019 That request was made this past March to policy advisers with the Heartland Institute, one of the most vocal challengers of mainstream scientific findings that emissions from burning coal, oil and gas are damaging the Earth's atmosphere. — NBC News, "Emails reveal Trump official consulted climate change deniers," 14 June 2019 The bar is three rooms and on the smaller side, but the atmosphere is very welcoming. — Briana Rice, Cincinnati.com, "Here are 10 of the best LGBTQ-friendly bars in Cincinnati," 14 June 2019 Charge up a decent-size Bluetooth speaker and get the atmosphere going early. — Corey Seymour, Vogue, "One Dad’s New Field of (Tiny) Baseball Dreams," 14 June 2019 The atmosphere had got rowdy, strangers striking up conversations like old friends. — Nick Paumgarten, The New Yorker, "Inside the Cultish Dreamworld of Augusta National," 14 June 2019 Despite the non-sellout, U.S. coach Jill Ellis and players praised the atmosphere after the match. — Alicia Delgallo, Pro Soccer USA, "Lindsey Horan helps USWNT teammates navigate France," 14 June 2019 Consumer Cellular develops a fun and welcoming atmosphere through its strong supervisory team, employee appreciation events and recognition programs. — Leigh Farr, azcentral, "Ranking of the 2019 Top Companies to Work for in Arizona: Large Company Category," 13 June 2019 While food will be available from several vendors, those attending are welcome to bring their own and enjoy the picnic atmosphere. — Ramona Sentinel, "Rotary kicks off fireworks campaign," 13 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'atmosphere.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

History and Etymology for atmosphere

earlier in Latinate form atmo-sphæra, from Greek atmós "steam, vapor" (probably contracted from aetmós, of uncertain origin) + -o- -o-+ Latin sphaera sphere entry 1

Note: The word atmo-sphæra was apparently introduced by the English clergyman and natural philosopher John Wilkins (1614-72) in The Discovery of a World in the Moone (London, 1638), p. 138: "Proposition 10. That there is an Atmo-sphæra, or an orbe of grosse vaporous aire, immediately encompassing the body of the Moone."

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