atmospheric

adjective at·mo·spher·ic \ ˌat-mə-ˈsfir-ik , -ˈsfer- \

|Updated on: 17 Jul 2018

Definition of atmospheric

1 a : of, relating to, or occurring in the atmosphere

atmospheric dust

b : resembling the atmosphere : airy

2 : having, marked by, or contributing aesthetic or emotional atmosphere

an atmospheric inn

; also : marked by an emphasis on impression or tone

—

atmospherically

play \-i-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

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Recent Examples of atmospheric from the Web

As the sun set, electricity meters outside the houses cast an atmospheric green glow—the light of progress.

— The Economist, "Mini-grids could be a boon to poor people in Africa and Asia," 12 July 2018
Since hurricane season began June 1, the forecast said, the Atlantic Ocean has developed unusually cold temperatures, depriving developing hurricanes of fuel and the atmospheric instability necessary for their formation.

— david fleshler, Sun-Sentinel.com, "Fewer hurricanes expected this season, according to latest forecast," 2 July 2018
It is then mixed with atmospheric oxygen to generate an electric current which drives a motor.

— jordan blum, Houston Chronicle, "Exxon Mobil, Chevron help form new methane emissions consortium," 25 June 2018
That’s a heck of a lot of moody, atmospheric cyberpunk role-playing for under $10 total.

— brad chacos, PCWorld, "The Humble Store is giving cyberpunk RPG Shadowrun Returns away for free," 22 June 2018
Through the app, these locations delegate musical, and therefore atmospheric, control to patrons and profit in the process.

— lauren michele jackson, The Atlantic, "Digital Jukeboxes Make Every Bar’s Vibe the Same," 8 May 2018
More atmospheric science Computing systems like Deep Thunder are helping weather forecasters get hyperlocal.

— matt simon, WIRED, "A Tornado's Secret Sounds Could Reveal Where It'll Strike," 8 May 2018
Don’t Leave Home is moody and atmospheric, an arthouse horror film that has the patience to slowly roll out its story without worrying about jump-scares or big plot reveals.

— bryan bishop, The Verge, "Don’t Leave Home is a wonderfully atmospheric waking nightmare," 6 May 2018
Still, the show’s atmospheric nods to Mexico and Mexican culture felt like more than window dressing.

— don aucoin, BostonGlobe.com, "A Cirque du Soleil show that’s as interested in ‘Ahh’ as ‘Wow’," 29 June 2018

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

Origin and Etymology of atmospheric

atmosphere + ¹-ic

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1722

in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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ATMOSPHERIC Defined for English Language Learners

atmospheric

adjective

Definition of atmospheric for English Language Learners

: of or relating to the atmosphere of the Earth or another planet
: creating a pleasant or exciting mood or feeling

ATMOSPHERIC Defined for Kids

atmospheric

adjective at·mo·spher·ic \ ˌat-mə-ˈsfir-ik , -ˈsfer- \

Definition of atmospheric for Students

: of or relating to the atmosphere

atmospheric gases

Learn More about atmospheric

See words that rhyme with atmospheric Spanish Central: Translation of atmospheric Nglish: Translation of atmospheric for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of atmospheric for Arabic speakers

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atmospheric

Definition of atmospheric

atmospherically

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atmospheric

Definition of atmospheric for English Language Learners

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atmospheric

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atmospheric

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atmospherically

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