climate

cli-mate · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The typical weather conditions in a particular area over a long period of time.

  2. 2.

    The prevailing conditions or atmosphere in a situation.

  3. 3.

    A region with particular weather conditions.

Forms

plural: climates

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    climate change — long-term changes in global temperatures and weather patterns
  • •
    climate control — regulation of temperature and humidity
  • •
    business climate — the economic environment for business
  • •
    climate of opinion — prevailing public attitudes
  • •
    climate action — efforts to address climate change

Related words

See also: atmosphere, environment, temperature, weather
Synonyms: atmosphere, conditions, environment, weather

Etymology

From Greek "klima" (inclination, slope, zone), from "klinein" (to lean, slope). The Greeks believed climate depended on the angle of the sun's rays, which varies with latitude. The word entered English via Latin "clima" and Old French "climat."