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Summer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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summer

[ˈsʌmər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

season

The warmest season of the year, in the northern hemisphere from June to August and in the southern hemisphere from December to February. It is characterized by long days, warm weather, and outdoor activities.

Synonyms

hot season, summertime, vacation season.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
summer

Use 'summer' when referring to the season between spring and autumn, characterized by warm or hot weather.

  • Summer is my favorite season because I love going to the beach
  • | During the summer, daylight hours are longer
summertime

Use 'summertime' to evoke a more general or nostalgic feeling of the summer months, often associated with leisure and outdoor activities.

  • Summertime is perfect for barbecues and picnics
  • | There's something magical about summertime evenings
hot season

Use 'hot season' when describing a specific period, typically in tropical regions, where temperatures are higher than usual. It can sometimes imply discomfort due to the heat.

  • The hot season in Thailand can be quite intense, with temperatures often reaching 40°C
  • | Farmers prepare for the hot season by installing irrigation systems
vacation season

Use 'vacation season' when referring to a period in summer when most people take their holidays, particularly in professional contexts or planning vacations.

  • During the vacation season, it's hard to find affordable flights and accommodations
  • | Our office is usually quieter during the vacation season as many people are away on holiday

Examples of usage

  • The children love to play outside during the summer.
  • We usually go on vacation in the summer.
  • I enjoy swimming in the pool during the summer.
  • The summer heat can be intense.
  • Many people have barbecues in the summer.
Context #2 | Noun

school break

The period of time when schools and universities are closed, typically lasting from late May to early September. It is a time for students to relax, travel, or work.

Synonyms

school break, summer recess, summer vacation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
summer

This term is used broadly to refer to the season of the year between spring and autumn. It can describe anything happening during this warm period, not only holidays.

  • I love going to the beach during summer.
  • Summer is the perfect time for barbecues and picnics.
school break

This phrase is often used to describe time off from school and can refer to any break period, not strictly limited to the summer season. It generally implies a short temporary break in the academic schedule.

  • I'm planning to visit my grandparents during the school break.
  • The school break starts next week.

Examples of usage

  • She spent the summer working at a summer camp.
  • During the summer, families often go on road trips.
  • Many students use the summer to gain work experience.
  • The summer holidays are a time for relaxation.
  • Summer break is a time for students to recharge.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, summer is associated with festivals, outdoor activities, and vacations, celebrating warmth and relaxation.
  • The Summer Solstice, occurring around June 21st, is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and is celebrated in various traditions.
  • In literature, summer often symbolizes youth and exuberance, contrasting with themes of harvest and decay in autumn.

Science

  • Summer happens because the Earth's axis tilts toward the sun, resulting in direct sunlight and warmer temperatures for half of the year.
  • Different regions experience summer at different times; for instance, when it’s summer in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s winter in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • The increase in temperature during summer leads to phenomena like blooming flowers and animal breeding cycles.

Pop Culture

  • Songs like 'Summer of '69' by Bryan Adams capture the nostalgia and carefree spirit associated with summer vacations.
  • Movies such as 'The Sandlot' and 'Summer of Sam' portray summer as a time of adventure and change.
  • Summer is often the backdrop for promotional campaigns and commercials focusing on travel, beaches, and seasonal products.

Psychology

  • During summer, people often report feeling happier and more energized due to the increase in sunlight and outdoor activities.
  • Studies show that seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is less common in summer, leading to improved mood in many individuals.
  • The warmth of summer can inspire creativity, leading to more artistic expressions and leisure activities.

Origin of 'summer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'summer' comes from the Old English 'sumor,' which was used to describe the warmest season.
  • Similar words exist in other languages; for example, 'verano' in Spanish and 'été' in French also refer to summer.
  • The term has roots tracing back to ancient languages, linking it to the concept of warmth and growth.

The word 'summer' has its origins in Old English 'sumor', which is related to the Old High German 'sumar' and Old Norse 'sumar'. These words ultimately trace back to the Proto-Indo-European root 'sem' meaning 'together'. Summer has been traditionally associated with warmth, growth, and abundance, making it a time of celebration and joy in many cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,086, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.