atmospheric

adjective

at·​mo·​spher·​ic ˌat-mə-ˈsfir-ik How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
-ˈsfer-
1
a
: of, relating to, or occurring in the atmosphere
atmospheric dust
b
: resembling the atmosphere : airy
2
: having, marked by, or contributing aesthetic or emotional atmosphere
an atmospheric inn
also : marked by an emphasis on impression or tone
atmospherically
ˌat-mə-ˈsfir-i-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
-ˈsfer-
adverb

Examples of atmospheric in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Because these atmospheric features bring clear skies, the sun’s rays can beat down relentlessly and build up heat. — Andrea Thompson, Scientific American, 29 June 2026 His debut on the annual awards program’s main stage featured a live guitarist amplifying the atmospheric vibe of the flirtatious song. — Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 28 June 2026 The heat index combines atmospheric temperature and relative humidity to determine how heat feels to the body. — Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 Even more atmospheric data will soon become available from four additional recent transits by JWST. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for atmospheric

Word History

Etymology

atmosphere + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of atmospheric was in 1722

Phrases Containing atmospheric

Rhymes for atmospheric

See All Rhymes for atmospheric

Browse Nearby Words

atmosphere
atmospheric
atmospheric absorption
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Atmospheric.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atmospheric. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

atmospheric

adjective
at·​mo·​spher·​ic ˌat-mə-ˈsfi(ə)r-ik How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
-ˈsfer-
: of or relating to the atmosphere
atmospheric pressure
atmospherically
-i-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on atmospheric

Nglish: Translation of atmospheric for Spanish Speakers

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