English Reference
adjective

oceanic

adj.
US /ˌoʊʃiˈænɪk/ UK /ˌəʊʃɪˈænɪk/ ocean·ic

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    relating to the ocean or the creatures that live in it.

    of or relating to the ocean; specifically describing organisms or processes occurring in the open sea.

    Simple

    Scientists are studying oceanic currents to understand how the climate is changing.

    In context

    The expedition focused on oceanic life forms that thrive in the extreme pressure and darkness of the deep-sea trenches.

    marinepelagic
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Literary

    extremely large, like the ocean.

    resembling an ocean in vastness, depth, or extent; used figuratively to describe immense scale.

    Simple

    The crowd moved with an oceanic force through the city streets.

    In context

    The philosopher's work is known for its oceanic depth, covering almost every aspect of human existence in exhaustive detail.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    a type of weather with mild temperatures and plenty of rain all year.

    describing a temperate climate characterized by cool summers, mild winters, and consistent rainfall throughout the year.

    Simple

    London has an oceanic climate, which means it rarely gets extremely hot or cold.

    In context

    The region's oceanic climate is ideal for certain types of agriculture that require stable temperatures and high humidity.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Academic

    relating to the islands of the Pacific Ocean, known as Oceania.

    pertaining to the geographical region of Oceania or the Oceanic branch of the Austronesian language family.

    Simple

    The museum has a beautiful collection of oceanic art from the Pacific islands.

    In context

    Linguists have spent decades mapping the relationships between various Oceanic languages spoken across the scattered islands of the Pacific.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated