climate change

American  

[klahy-mit cheynj] / ˈklaɪ mɪt ˌtʃeɪndʒ /

noun

1. a long-term change in the earth's climate, especially a change due to an increase in the average atmospheric temperature.

   Melting glaciers imply that life in the Arctic is affected by climate change.

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Usage

What is climate change? Climate change refers to a sweeping change in global climate conditions, including weather phenomena, temperature, and sea levels. It’s caused by an influx of greenhouse gases, mostly from fossil fuel emissions around the world. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere and change weather patterns, warming many areas of the globe and causing erratic season and weather events. How is term pronounced?[ klahy-mit cheynj ]

Etymology

Origin of climate change

First recorded in 1980–85

Compare meaning

How does climate-change compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• global warming vs. climate change

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

climate change

Improper recycling can release lead, mercury or plastics into the environment and contribute to climate change, the report warned.

From Barron's ● Aug. 4, 2026

The push to green our cities amid warming temperatures due to climate change has also created new mosquito habitats.

From Slate ● Aug. 4, 2026

There, microorganisms can break it down and release greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.

From Science Daily ● Aug. 3, 2026

"What we are seeing are the effects of climate change and it is catastrophic," said Galvin.

From BBC ● Aug. 2, 2026

She had never challenged her dad on climate change because she hated to argue.

From "Two Degrees" by Alan Gratz