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Synonyms

atmospheric

American  
[at-muhs-fer-ik, -feer-] / ˌæt məsˈfɛr ɪk, -ˈfɪər- /
Also atmospherical

adjective

  1. pertaining to, existing in, or consisting of the atmosphere.

    atmospheric vapors.

  2. caused by, produced by, or operated on by the atmosphere.

    atmospheric storms.

  3. resembling or suggestive of the atmosphere; having muted tones and softened or indistinct outlines; hazy.

    atmospheric effects.

  4. having or producing an emotional atmosphere.

    atmospheric quality; atmospheric lighting.


Other Word Forms

  • atmospherically adverb
  • nonatmospheric adjective
  • nonatmospherical adjective
  • nonatmospherically adverb
  • unatmospheric adjective

Etymology

Origin of atmospheric

First recorded in 1775–85; atmosphere + -ic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Because Mars has such low atmospheric pressure, these discharges occur more easily than on Earth.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

It opens with rumbling drums, a wandering upright bass, and an atmospheric synthesizer.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

Niemann notes that this breakthrough was made possible by combining ocean research with expertise from atmospheric science, including contributions from Utrecht University scientist Dusân Materic.

From Science Daily • Mar. 29, 2026

The singer-songwriter’s ambitious new record blends heady, wide-ranging subject matter with gorgeously atmospheric, guitar-focused arrangements.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

Nitrification, which makes atmospheric nitrogen available to plants, is an example.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson