Weather: meaning, definitions and examples

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weather

 

[ˈwɛðər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

forecast

The state of the atmosphere at a particular place and time, regarding temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind.

Synonyms

climate, conditions, meteorology.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
weather

This term is generally used to describe the day-to-day state of the atmosphere in a specific place, including factors like temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind.

  • The weather today is sunny and warm.
  • She checked the weather forecast before going on a hike.
climate

Climate refers to the long-term patterns and average conditions of temperature, humidity, wind, etc., in a particular region over an extended period.

  • The climate in the Sahara Desert is very hot and dry.
  • Scientists are studying changes in the global climate.
meteorology

Meteorology is the scientific study of the atmosphere that focuses on weather processes and forecasting. It is a more technical term typically used in academic or professional contexts.

  • He is studying meteorology to become a weather forecaster.
  • Advances in meteorology have greatly improved our ability to predict storms.
conditions

Conditions is a broader term that may refer to the current state of the atmosphere at a particular time and place, often used in conjunction with weather to specify aspects like road or travel conditions.

  • Driving conditions are hazardous due to the snowstorm.
  • What are the weather conditions like today?

Examples of usage

  • The weather forecast predicts rain tomorrow.
  • The weather today is sunny and warm.
Context #2 | Verb

change

To change or alter the state of the atmosphere in a particular place.

Synonyms

endure, survive, withstand.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
weather

Use 'weather' metaphorically to describe making it through a difficult situation or crisis, often with the help of perseverance.

  • The company managed to weather the financial crisis fairly well.
  • She weathered the storm of public criticism and continued her work.
endure

Use 'endure' when talking about overcoming hardships or challenges over a long period. It implies a sense of persistence and toughness.

  • He had to endure years of hard work before he saw success.
  • She endured the pain with great strength.
withstand

Use 'withstand' when referring to standing strong against forces or pressures, whether physical or metaphorical. It implies resistance and robustness.

  • The building was designed to withstand earthquakes.
  • He could not withstand the pressure from his peers and eventually gave in.
survive

Use 'survive' to describe making it through a life-threatening or extreme situation. It often implies that the person or thing is still alive or functioning.

  • They survived the plane crash with minor injuries.
  • He managed to survive on very little food for weeks.

Examples of usage

  • The storm weathered the ship.
  • The paint on the house is weathering.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English 'weder', which meant 'air, sky, or storm'.
  • It can also be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'wedriz', linked to the concept of the wind.
  • In ancient times, the word was often associated with the moods and changes in nature.

Science

  • Weather is influenced by the sun, which heats the Earth unevenly, causing wind and precipitation.
  • Meteorologists use satellite technology and computer models to forecast weather patterns.
  • Atmospheric pressure plays a key role in determining weather conditions and can predict storms.

Cultural Impact

  • Weather has inspired countless poems and songs, symbolizing emotion and change.
  • Various cultures hold festivals and traditions that celebrate specific weather patterns, like the arrival of spring.
  • Different regions develop unique phrases and sayings tied to their local weather conditions.

Technology

  • Weather apps use advanced algorithms to provide real-time updates on local conditions.
  • Smart homes now incorporate weather forecasting into their systems to optimize energy use.
  • Drones are increasingly used in meteorology to gather data in hard-to-reach areas.

Historical Significance

  • Ancient societies heavily relied on understanding weather for farming and survival.
  • Explorers often faced dangerous weather conditions, significantly impacting their voyages and discoveries.
  • The study of weather has evolved over centuries from simple observations to complex science.

Translations

Translations of the word "weather" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tempo

🇮🇳 मौसम

🇩🇪 Wetter

🇮🇩 cuaca

🇺🇦 погода

🇵🇱 pogoda

🇯🇵 天気 (tenki)

🇫🇷 temps

🇪🇸 tiempo

🇹🇷 hava

🇰🇷 날씨 (nalssi)

🇸🇦 طقس (taqs)

🇨🇿 počasí

🇸🇰 počasie

🇨🇳 天气 (tiānqì)

🇸🇮 vreme

🇮🇸 veður

🇰🇿 ауа райы

🇬🇪 ამინდი (amindi)

🇦🇿 hava

🇲🇽 tiempo

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,707, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.