atmospheric

adjective

at·​mo·​spher·​ic ˌat-mə-ˈsfir-ik How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
-ˈsfer-
1
a
: of, relating to, or occurring in the atmosphere
atmospheric dust
b
: resembling the atmosphere : airy
2
: having, marked by, or contributing aesthetic or emotional atmosphere
an atmospheric inn
also : marked by an emphasis on impression or tone
atmospherically
ˌat-mə-ˈsfir-i-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
-ˈsfer-
adverb

Examples of atmospheric in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Our next atmospheric shot was taken with the aid of a telephoto lens by Ismail Kaplan during moonrise, as the lunar disk shimmered alongside Ankara Castle in the capital city of Türkiye. — Anthony Wood, Space.com, 30 July 2026 The atmospheric erotic thriller will world premiere in the prestigious international competition at the upcoming Locarno Film Festival, taking place in Switzerland over August 5-15. — Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 29 July 2026 Satellites in certain orbits can receive near-continuous solar exposure, enabling uninterrupted renewable energy generation without many of the atmospheric limitations on Earth. — Shelli Brunswick, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 The game feels more atmospheric with fog and snow effects, while the lighting increases the realism and moodiness of the campaign. — Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for atmospheric

Word History

Etymology

atmosphere + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of atmospheric was in 1722

Phrases Containing atmospheric

Rhymes for atmospheric

See All Rhymes for atmospheric

Browse Nearby Words

atmosphere
atmospheric
atmospheric absorption
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Atmospheric.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atmospheric. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

atmospheric

adjective
at·​mo·​spher·​ic ˌat-mə-ˈsfi(ə)r-ik How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
-ˈsfer-
: of or relating to the atmosphere
atmospheric pressure
atmospherically
-i-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce atmospheric (audio)
adverb

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