Meaning of Word
Humidity refers to the amount of moisture or water vapor present in the air.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- The amount of water vapor in the air.
- The state of being damp or moist.
- The degree of moisture in the atmosphere, often affecting comfort and weather conditions.
History and Origin
The word humidity comes from the Latin word humidus, meaning “moist” or “damp.”
- Humidus is derived from humus, meaning “earth” or “ground,” suggesting the moisture in the air relates to the earth’s moisture content.
It has been used in English since the 17th century, particularly in weather-related contexts, to describe moisture levels in the air.
Detailed Explanation
Humidity refers to the presence of water vapor in the air. It is commonly expressed as a percentage, which represents how much moisture is in the air compared to the maximum amount the air can hold at a given temperature. There are two main types of humidity:
- Absolute Humidity – The total amount of water vapor in the air, usually measured in grams per cubic meter.
- Relative Humidity – The percentage of moisture in the air relative to the maximum amount of moisture the air can hold at a specific temperature.
Humidity is a significant factor in weather, comfort, and health. High humidity can make temperatures feel warmer than they are, while low humidity can cause discomfort, dry skin, or respiratory issues.
Example Sentences
- The humidity level today is so high that it feels much hotter than the actual temperature.
- The weather report predicts increased humidity in the afternoon, which could make it feel uncomfortable.
- In tropical climates, high humidity is common and can make the air feel heavy and oppressive.
- The dry air and low humidity during the winter can lead to dry skin and chapped lips.
- High humidity can affect the performance of electronic equipment by causing condensation.
- The plant thrives in areas with high humidity and consistent moisture.
- Excess humidity in the room caused the wallpaper to peel.
- After the rain, the humidity increased, making the air feel thick and damp.
- The humidity in the desert is usually very low, making the heat more bearable.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Moisture – The presence of water in any form, especially as vapor or liquid.
- Dampness – The condition of being slightly wet or moist, often associated with humidity.
- Wetness – The state of being covered with or saturated by liquid, often in relation to humidity levels.
- Steam – Water vapor that can contribute to humidity in the air.
- Condensation – The process by which water vapor becomes liquid, often a result of high humidity.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Climate – The average weather conditions, including humidity, in a particular area over time.
- Moist – Slightly wet, often related to humidity levels.
- Air quality – The condition of the air in terms of humidity, pollutants, and other factors.
- Precipitation – Any form of water, including rain and snow, which can influence humidity.
- Comfort index – A measure of how the combined temperature and humidity affect perceived comfort.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Dew point – The temperature at which air becomes saturated with moisture and begins to condense.
- Humidity control – The process of regulating the level of humidity in indoor environments.
- Climatic conditions – The overall weather patterns, including humidity, in a specific region.
- Evaporation – The process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas, contributing to humidity.
- Muggy – Describing weather that feels warm and damp due to high humidity.
Antonyms
- Aridity – The state of being dry, lacking moisture or humidity.
- Dryness – The condition of having little or no moisture in the air.
- Desiccation – The process of drying out, typically in reference to the removal of moisture.
- Drought – A prolonged period of abnormally low humidity or moisture, especially in relation to rainfall.
- Dehydration – The state of being deprived of water or moisture, opposite to high humidity.