English Reference

Word

climatic

Phoneticscli·mat·ic, stress on the second syllable

US/kɫaɪˈmætɪk/

UK/klaɪmˈætɪk/

Definition

adj. relating to the weather conditions of a specific area over a long period of time.

adj. relating to the climate or long-term atmospheric conditions of a specific region.

Examples

“The region is facing severe climatic changes.”

“Researchers are studying how climatic shifts in the Arctic affect global sea levels over several decades.”

“The unique climatic conditions of the valley, characterized by high humidity and consistent temperatures, allow rare tropical plants to thrive far from their native habitats.”

Examples

simple

“The region is facing severe climatic changes.”

contextual

“Researchers are studying how climatic shifts in the Arctic affect global sea levels over several decades.”

complex

“The unique climatic conditions of the valley, characterized by high humidity and consistent temperatures, allow rare tropical plants to thrive far from their native habitats.”

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun.

Pitfall

the climatic scene of the movie

the climactic scene of the movie

Learners often confuse 'climatic' (relating to climate) with 'climactic' (relating to a climax or peak moment).

Real-World Examples

“In 1815, a mountain in Indonesia named Tambora exploded, sending sulfur into the upper atmosphere and triggering broad climatic changes.”
Ars Technica 23 Aug 2026
“Although higher temperatures and reduced rainfall predicted under future climatic conditions weakened the effect, they did not eliminate it.”
Phys.org 20 Aug 2026

Etymology

From climate + -ic.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

ADJECTIVE

climatic(C1)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Frequent
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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English Reference