Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Meteorology: meaning, definitions and examples

🌦️
Add to dictionary

meteorology

 

[ˌmiː.ti.əˈrɑː.lə.dʒi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

study of weather

Meteorology is the scientific study of the atmosphere and its phenomena, especially in relation to weather and climate. It involves the observation and interpretation of data from various sources, such as weather satellites, radar systems, and weather stations.

Synonyms

atmospheric science, climatology.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
meteorology

Used when discussing the study of weather and atmospheric conditions over short periods. It often includes weather forecasting and the mechanics behind it.

  • She decided to specialize in meteorology because she was fascinated by storm patterns.
  • Meteorology plays a critical role in predicting and preparing for natural disasters like hurricanes.
climatology

Used specifically in contexts involving the study of climate, its changes, and its long-term patterns. It focuses on average weather conditions over long periods and often relates to issues like global warming.

  • Climatology is essential for understanding how human activities affect global temperatures.
  • She published a paper on tropical climatology and its impact on biodiversity.
atmospheric science

Employed when talking about the comprehensive study of the Earth's atmosphere, its processes, and its interaction with other systems. It is a broader field that includes meteorology.

  • His research in atmospheric science covers everything from cloud formation to air quality.
  • Atmospheric science provides crucial data for understanding climate change.

Examples of usage

  • He decided to pursue a career in meteorology and become a weather forecaster.
  • The university offers a degree program in meteorology for students interested in studying weather patterns.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Greek 'meteoros', meaning 'high in the air', and 'logia', meaning 'study'.
  • Originally, meteorology included the study of all atmospheric phenomena, not just weather.
  • The term was first used in Aristotle's work, 'Meteorology', around 350 BC.

Historical Developments

  • The invention of the barometer in the 17th century allowed for improved atmospheric pressure measurements.
  • Weather forecasting became significantly more reliable with the advent of satellites in the late 20th century.
  • The concept of weather prediction gained popularity in the early 19th century with the establishment of meteorological societies.

Science

  • Meteorologists use advanced technology like radar and satellites to predict weather patterns.
  • The unit used to measure atmospheric pressure, millibars, plays a crucial role in weather forecasting.
  • The Coriolis effect, caused by Earth's rotation, helps to determine wind direction and influence weather systems.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Twister' and 'The Day After Tomorrow' portray storm chasers and meteorologists battling extreme weather.
  • TV characters often comically misunderstand weather predictions, showcasing the uncertainty of meteorology.
  • Popular weather apps often include playful animations, making meteorology more engaging for the everyday user.

Psychology

  • Weather can greatly influence mood; for instance, sunny days are often associated with increased happiness.
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, often due to reduced sunlight.
  • Research shows that extreme weather events can lead to heightened anxiety and stress levels in affected populations.

Translations

Translations of the word "meteorology" in other languages:

🇵🇹 meteorologia

🇮🇳 मौसम विज्ञान

🇩🇪 Meteorologie

🇮🇩 meteorologi

🇺🇦 метеорологія

🇵🇱 meteorologia

🇯🇵 気象学 (きしょうがく)

🇫🇷 météorologie

🇪🇸 meteorología

🇹🇷 meteoroloji

🇰🇷 기상학 (gisanghak)

🇸🇦 الأرصاد الجوية

🇨🇿 meteorologie

🇸🇰 meteorológia

🇨🇳 气象学 (qìxiàngxué)

🇸🇮 meteorologija

🇮🇸 veðurfræði

🇰🇿 метеорология

🇬🇪 მეტეოროლოგია

🇦🇿 meteorologiya

🇲🇽 meteorología

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,705, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.