nimbostratus
[ nim-boh-strey-tuhs, -strat-uhs ]
/ ˌnɪm boʊˈstreɪ təs, -ˈstræt əs /
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noun, plural nim·bo·stra·tus.
a cloud of a class characterized by a formless layer that is almost uniformly dark gray; a rain cloud of the layer type, of low altitude, usually below 8,000 feet (2,440 meters).
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Let’s start with some etymology: What are the origins of the typographical word “bracket”?
First appeared around 1750, and is related to the French word “braguette” for the name of codpiece armor.
First appeared in 1610, based on the French word “baguette” for the long loaf of bread.
First appeared in 1555, and is related to the French word “raquette” for a netted bat.
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Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
British Dictionary definitions for nimbostratus
nimbostratus
/ (ˌnɪmbəʊˈstreɪtəs, -ˈstrɑːtəs) /
noun plural -ti (-taɪ)
a dark-coloured rain-bearing stratus cloud
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Scientific definitions for nimbostratus
nimbostratus
[ nĭm′bō-străt′əs ]
Plural nimbostrati (nĭm′bō-străt′ī′)
A dark, gray, mid-altitude cloud that often covers the entire sky and precipitates rain, snow, or sleet. Nimbostratus clouds generally form around 2,000 m (6,560 ft) but often extend to much higher and lower altitudes. See illustration at cloud.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
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