global warming

[gloh-buhl wawrm-ing]

noun

1. an increase in the earth's average atmospheric temperature that causes corresponding changes in climate, as a consequence of the greenhouse effect.

global warming

noun

1. an increase in the average temperature worldwide believed to be caused by the greenhouse effect

global warming

1. An increase in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere, especially a sustained increase great enough to cause changes in the global climate. The Earth has experienced numerous episodes of global warming through its history, and currently appears to be undergoing such warming. The present warming is generally attributed to an increase in the greenhouse effect , brought about by increased levels of greenhouse gases, largely due to the effects of human industry and agriculture. Expected long-term effects of current global warming are rising sea levels, flooding, melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, fluctuations in temperature and precipitation, more frequent and stronger El Niños and La Niñas, drought, heat waves, and forest fires.

2. See more at greenhouse effect

global warming

1. The term attached to the notion that the Earth's temperature is increasing due to the greenhouse effect.

Whether global warming is actually happening is a subject of scientific debate.

Word History and Origins

Origin of global warming¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Coal, a major contributor to global warming, was still the world's largest individual source of energy generation in 2024, a position it has held for more than 50 years, according to the International Energy Agency.

From BBC

"They are sitting in a climate that is very hostile to them now because of global warming."

From BBC

Reiterating the words of his predecessor Pope Francis, the new pontiff lambasted critics who "ridicule those who speak of global warming".

From BBC

These pledges - submitted every five years - are a key part of the Paris climate agreement, the landmark deal in which nearly 200 countries agreed steps to try to limit global warming.

From BBC

The Santa Monica native lobbied for various environmental causes onscreen and off, including Native American rights, offshore oil drilling and global warming.

From Los Angeles Times