What does atmosphere mean?

Pronunciation

/ˈæθməˈsfiər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A surrounding influence that modifies the character or way of something, typically a perceived environment or context.

Examples

• The atmosphere was tense and expectant as the audience waited for the winner to be announced.
• The couple’s romantic atmosphere was shattered by the loud noise from the nearby construction site.

Synonyms

• Surroundings
• Milieu

Antonyms

• Vacuum
• Void

Etymology

The word “atmosphere” comes from the Greek words “ατμίς” (atmus) meaning “vapor” and “σφαῖρα” (sphaira) meaning “ball” or “sphere”.

Usage Notes

Atmosphere is often used to describe a specific context or environment that influences people’s behavior or feelings. It can refer to the physical surroundings, the emotional tone, or the prevailing mood.

Cultural References

In popular culture, the term “atmosphere” has been used in various contexts, including music, film, and literature. For example, the famous 1967 poem “Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night” by Dylan Thomas mentions “the atmosphere of decay”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Getting down to the nitty-gritty
• Falling into place

Related Words or Phrases

• Mood

Collocations

• Gloomy atmosphere
• Electric atmosphere

Frequency of Use

Atmosphere is a commonly used term in everyday language, particularly in social and cultural contexts.

Common Misspellings

Atmosphire, Atmospherea, Atmospher