atmospheric
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
relating to the layer of air that surrounds the earth.
pertaining to, produced by, or existing within the atmosphere of a planet.
Simple“Scientists are studying atmospheric changes to understand global warming better.”
In context“The probe measured atmospheric pressure and chemical composition as it descended through the thick clouds of the gas giant.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
creating a special or exciting feeling, often in a place or a piece of art.
evoking a particular aesthetic or emotional quality; creating a distinctive mood.
Simple“The old restaurant was very atmospheric with its dim lights and soft music.”
In context“The director used atmospheric lighting and a haunting soundtrack to build tension throughout the opening scene of the film.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
looking slightly blurry or misty, like the air on a foggy day.
having a hazy or translucent quality caused by the effects of the atmosphere on light.
Simple“The mountains looked blue and atmospheric in the distance.”
In context“The painter captured the atmospheric perspective of the valley, where the distant hills faded into a soft, pale violet.”
Usage atmospheric carbon
“But water vapor can amplify the atmospheric warming caused by other greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, a fact the statement omits.”
“When was the last time you enjoyed an atmospheric single-player FPS with intelligent computer-controlled enemies?”
From atmospher(e) + -ic.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.