Tropical: meaning, definitions and examples

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tropical

 

[หˆtrษ’pษชkษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

climate

relating to or characteristic of the tropics, which are the regions of the Earth near the equator and between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.

Synonyms

equatorial, exotic, subtropical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tropical

This word refers to regions close to the equator, known for high temperatures and heavy rainfall. Ideal for describing places with lush vegetation, hot weather, and diverse wildlife.

  • We went on vacation to a tropical island
  • The tropical rainforest is full of amazing animals
equatorial

This term is used for locations exactly on or near the equator. These areas experience consistent warm weather and equal day and night lengths year-round.

  • Equatorial countries often have very humid climates
  • The equatorial sun is intensely strong
subtropical

This describes regions that are outside the tropics but still experience hot summers, mild winters, and sufficient rainfall. These areas can support diverse vegetation and are often tourist destinations.

  • The subtropical climate of Florida makes it a popular vacation spot
  • Subtropical plants can thrive in this garden
exotic

This word is best used to describe something unusual, exciting, or intriguing that comes from a distant, foreign country. It often carries a sense of something being rare or special.

  • She decorated her house with exotic furniture
  • They tried some exotic fruits they had never seen before

Examples of usage

  • They enjoyed the tropical climate during their vacation in Hawaii.
  • Tropical fruits like mangoes and pineapples thrive in warm, humid climates.
Context #2 | Adjective

style

of, typical of, or peculiar to the tropics; warm, moist, lush, colorful, or vibrant.

Synonyms

exotic, lush, vibrant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tropical

Describes climates, regions, or vegetation that are characteristic of the tropics, often characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity.

  • The tropical rainforest is home to a diverse range of wildlife.
  • We spent our vacation on a beautiful tropical island.
lush

Describes areas that are rich with greenery and vegetation, often indicating lots of growth and fertility.

  • The valley was lush and green after the rainy season.
  • They walked through the lush gardens admiring the flowers.
vibrant

Used to describe something that is full of energy and life, often colorful and lively environments or cultures.

  • The city has a vibrant nightlife.
  • She wore a vibrant red dress for the party.
exotic

Refers to something that is fascinating and unusual because it comes from a foreign, especially distant, country. Can refer to animals, plants, objects, or experiences.

  • She has a collection of exotic plants in her garden.
  • He enjoyed tasting the exotic dishes at the international food festival.

Examples of usage

  • She decorated her living room with tropical plants and bright colors.
  • The tropical theme of the party made everyone feel like they were on an island vacation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'tropical' comes from the Greek word 'tropikos,' which means 'pertaining to turning,' referring to the sun's change in position over the equator.
  • In the 15th century, it started being used to describe regions around the equator where the climate is warmer.

Climate

  • Tropical climates typically have high temperatures all year round and distinct wet and dry seasons.
  • Rainforests that grow in tropical regions are vital for Earth's oxygen and biodiversity, housing about 50% of the world's plant and animal species.

Cultural Significance

  • Tropical areas are known for their vibrant cultures, often featuring colorful festivals that celebrate nature and harvests, like Carnival in Brazil.
  • Many tropical regions rely heavily on tourism for their economies, attracting millions of visitors seeking beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.

Flora and Fauna

  • Tropical areas are home to unique wildlife, including exotic birds like toucans and mammals such as sloths and monkeys.
  • The diversity of plant life, such as orchids and coconut palms, plays a key role in local ecosystems and economies.

Pop Culture

  • The word 'tropical' often inspires music and art, with genres like reggae and calypso celebrating island life and the warmth of the tropics.
  • Many popular vacation destinations are marketed as tropical getaways, emphasizing relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.

Translations

Translations of the word "tropical" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น tropical

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค‰เคทเฅเคฃเค•เคŸเคฟเคฌเค‚เคงเฅ€เคฏ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช tropisch

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ tropis

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ั‚ั€ะพะฟั–ั‡ะฝะธะน

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ tropikalny

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ็†ฑๅธฏ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท tropical

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ tropical

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท tropikal

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์—ด๋Œ€

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุงุณุชูˆุงุฆูŠ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ tropickรฝ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ tropickรฝ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ็ƒญๅธฆ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ tropski

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ hitabeltis

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ั‚ั€ะพะฟะธะบะฐะปั‹า›

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒขแƒ แƒแƒžแƒ˜แƒ™แƒฃแƒšแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ tropik

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ tropical

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,702, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.