pressure gradient

noun

, Meteorology.

1. the change in atmospheric pressure per unit of horizontal distance in the direction in which pressure changes most rapidly.

pressure gradient

noun

1. See favourable pressure gradient, adverse pressure gradient
   the change of pressure per unit distance See adverse pressure gradient favourable pressure gradient
2. meteorol the decrease in atmospheric pressure per unit of horizontal distance, shown on a synoptic chart by the spacing of the isobars

Word History and Origins

Origin of pressure gradient¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

The hood forms a seal around the wearer’s neck, but the system also creates a positive pressure gradient between the inside of the hood and the outside air—meaning that air wants to flow outward from the protective gear, and not into it.

From Popular-Science

The dependence of wind velocities on the pressure gradient is a fact of great importance in meteorology.

From Project Gutenberg