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.
Finally, Angel Martinez captured this gorgeous shot of the eclipsed Sturgeon Moon setting behind a cluster of skyscrapers in Madrid, Spain, as atmospheric effects distorted the true color and outline of the lunar disk. — Anthony Wood, Space.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Then again, simply staying in sick bay is starting to look dangerous after the atmospheric seal, threatening to lower the temperature to deadly levels. — Keith Phipps, Vulture, 27 Aug. 2026 At altitudes of tens of kilometers above Earth, temperatures and atmospheric pressure can differ dramatically from conditions at ground level. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 27 Aug. 2026 Consequently, smoke transport and its associated atmospheric chemistry represent a major North American air quality issue, one projected to intensify in the coming years. — Michael A. Robinson, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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