Langimage
English

atmospherical

|at-mos-pher-i-cal|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˌætməˈsfɛrɪkəl/

🇬🇧

/ˌætməˈsfɛrɪk(ə)l/

relating to the air or the mood

Etymology
Etymology Information

'atmospherical' originates from English, formed from the noun 'atmosphere' together with the adjective suffix '-al' (derived from Latin '-alis').

Historical Evolution

'atmosphere' itself comes from French 'atmosphère' and ultimately from Greek components 'atmos' and 'sphaira' (Greek 'atmós' meaning 'vapor' and 'sphaira' meaning 'sphere'); the adjective form developed in English from these roots via French/Latin influence.

Meaning Changes

Initially the root referred specifically to the physical 'vapor-sphere' surrounding a planet; over time derivatives (including adjectival forms) broadened to include figurative senses relating to mood or ambience as well.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

relating to the atmosphere of a planet; concerning the layers of gases surrounding a body.

The atmospherical pressure fell rapidly before the storm.

Synonyms

Antonyms

nonatmosphericextraterrestrial (in contexts contrasting planetary atmosphere)

Adjective 2

having the qualities of an atmosphere; creating or characterized by a particular mood or ambience.

The old library had an unusually atmospherical feel that encouraged quiet reflection.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/11/12 12:42