Summer: meaning, definitions and examples

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summer

 

[ ˈsʌmər ]

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.

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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.

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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

Translations of the word "summer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 verão

🇮🇳 गर्मी

🇩🇪 Sommer

🇮🇩 musim panas

🇺🇦 літо

🇵🇱 lato

🇯🇵 夏 (なつ)

🇫🇷 été

🇪🇸 verano

🇹🇷 yaz

🇰🇷 여름 (yeoreum)

🇸🇦 صيف (saif)

🇨🇿 léto

🇸🇰 leto

🇨🇳 夏天 (xiàtiān)

🇸🇮 poletje

🇮🇸 sumar

🇰🇿 жаз

🇬🇪 ზაფხული (zaphkhuli)

🇦🇿 yay

🇲🇽 verano

Etymology

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.