atmospheric

adjective

at·​mo·​spher·​ic ˌat-mə-ˈsfir-ik How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
-ˈsfer-
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 adverb

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Sounds that are undetectable anywhere else can often be detected in the stratosphere due to the atmospheric region’s relatively calm nature. Jackie Appel, Popular Mechanics, 18 May 2023 The company’s efforts are also expected to cut HAP emissions by 28 tons per year and emissions of VOCs, which react with other atmospheric chemicals to produce lung-damaging ozone, by 372 tons per year. Alex Dalton, Chicago Tribune, 17 May 2023 Second, the post drastically overstates how much atmospheric CO2 has increased. USA TODAY, 17 May 2023 The film explores the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship against the hot and atmospheric backdrop of Almería in Spain. Manori Ravindran, Variety, 10 May 2023 After its founding in 2017 by Zhao, the exchange experienced an atmospheric rise, quickly becoming the largest global cryptocurrency exchange while adjusting its compliance measures. Leo Schwartz, Fortune Crypto, 27 Mar. 2023 Teller’s concerns touched off a vigorous debate among the Manhattan Project scientists about the likelihood of an unintended atmospheric chain reaction. Steven Johnson, New York Times, 15 Mar. 2023 An atmospheric wave near China helping steer it northward, rather than weakening it markedly, appears to be enhancing Mocha’s outflow, which can keep intensification going despite what might often be disruptive wind shear. Ian Livingston, Washington Post, 13 May 2023 The particles interact with molecules of atmospheric gases to cause the famed glowing green and reddish colors of the aurora, according to NASA. Doyle Rice, USA TODAY, 13 May 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'atmospheric.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

atmosphere + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of atmospheric was in 1722

Dictionary Entries Near atmospheric

Cite this Entry

“Atmospheric.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atmospheric. Accessed 9 Jun. 2023.

Kids Definition

atmospheric

adjective
at·​mo·​spher·​ic ˌat-mə-ˈsfi(ə)r-ik How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
-ˈsfer-
: of or relating to the atmosphere
atmospheric pressure
atmospherically adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on atmospheric

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