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Atmosphere Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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atmosphere

[หˆรฆt.mษ™.sfษชษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in weather

The envelope of gases surrounding the earth or another planet.

Synonyms

air, ozone layer, sky.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
atmosphere

Best used to describe the mood or feeling in a place or situation, or the layer of gases surrounding a planet.

  • The atmosphere at the party was lively.
  • The Earth's atmosphere is crucial for life.
air

Refers to the invisible mixture of gases that we breathe, or can describe the feeling or impression of something.

  • The air is fresh and clean in the mountains.
  • There was an air of mystery about him.
sky

The expanse of air over the Earth where clouds and the Sun, Moon, and stars are seen. It is often referred to in terms of weather or aesthetics.

  • The sky is clear and blue today.
  • Stars twinkle in the night sky.
ozone layer

Specifically refers to the part of Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.

  • The ozone layer plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth.
  • A hole in the ozone layer can lead to increased UV radiation.

Examples of usage

  • The atmosphere of Mars is very thin compared to Earth's atmosphere.
  • The atmosphere plays a crucial role in regulating temperature on Earth.
Context #2 | Noun

in a place or situation

The pervading tone or mood of a place, situation, or work of art.

Synonyms

ambiance, aura, vibe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
atmosphere

This is often used to describe the general feeling or mood of a place, especially in a physical sense. It can be both positive and negative.

  • The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere.
  • There's a tense atmosphere in the office lately.
ambiance

This word is used specifically to talk about the character and mood of a place in a more sophisticated or refined way. It is usually positive.

  • The cafe had a charming ambiance with soft lighting and jazz music.
  • The wedding venue offers a romantic ambiance ideal for such occasions.
vibe

This is a more casual and informal word, often used in everyday conversation. It describes the emotional feel or mood people get from a place, situation, or person.

  • The party had a really fun vibe.
  • I don't like the vibe I'm getting from this place.
aura

Used to describe an invisible quality or feeling that seems to surround a person or thing. It carries a sense of mysticism or uniqueness.

  • She has an aura of confidence that draws people to her.
  • The old castle had an eerie aura that made everyone feel uneasy.

Examples of usage

  • There was a tense atmosphere in the meeting room.
  • The movie created a mysterious atmosphere that captivated the audience.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • The atmosphere is composed mainly of nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%), with traces of other gases like carbon dioxide.
  • It has several layers: the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere, each with different temperatures and pressures.
  • The atmosphere protects us from the Sunโ€™s harmful radiation and helps regulate the planet's temperature.

Literature

  • The term 'atmosphere' is often used in literature and film to create a mood or feeling, such as a spooky or romantic setting.
  • Authors may describe the atmosphere of a place to help readers feel the emotions of a character, like a bright sunny day or a dark stormy night.

Pop Culture

  • In movies like 'Gravity' and 'Interstellar', the portrayal of space and atmospheres around different planets creates a sense of wonder.
  • Songs often refer to 'atmosphere' as a metaphor for feelings or moodsโ€”like 'the atmosphere was electric' during a concert.

Psychology

  • The atmosphere or environment youโ€™re in can affect your mood and mental well-being; a cluttered space might make you feel stressed.
  • Studies show that natural light and open spaces in an environment can improve focus and happiness levels.

Origin of 'atmosphere'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Greek, where 'atmos' means vapor or steam and 'sphaira' means sphere.
  • In the 19th century, scientists began to use 'atmosphere' to describe the layer of gases around Earth.

The word 'atmosphere' originated from the Greek word 'atmos', meaning 'vapor' or 'air', and 'sphaira', meaning 'sphere'. It was first used in English in the early 17th century to refer to the gaseous envelope surrounding the Earth. Over time, the term evolved to also encompass the mood or feel of a place or situation.

See also: ecosphere, spherical.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,198, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.