Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Atmosphere
At′mos-phere
,Noun.
[Gr. [GREEK] vapor (akin to Skr.
ātman
breath, soul, G. athem
breath) + [GREEK] sphere: cf. F. atmosphère
. See Sphere
.] 1.
(Physics)
(a)
The whole mass of aëriform fluid surrounding the earth; – applied also to the gaseous envelope of any celestial orb, or other body;
as, the
. atmosphere
of Mars(b)
Any gaseous envelope or medium.
An
atmosphere
of cold oxygen. Miller.
2.
A supposed medium around various bodies;
as,
. electrical atmosphere
, a medium formerly supposed to surround electrical bodiesFranklin.
3.
The pressure or weight of the air at the sea level, on a unit of surface, or about 14.7 lbs. to the sq. inch.
Hydrogen was liquefied under a pressure of 650
atmospheres
. Lubbock.
4.
Any surrounding or pervading influence or condition.
The chillest of social
atmospheres
. Hawthorne.
5.
The portion of air in any locality, or affected by a special physical or sanitary condition;
as, the
atmosphere
of the room; a moist or noxious atmosphere
.Webster 1828 Edition
Atmosphere
AT'MOSPHERE
,Noun.
The whole mass of fluid, consisting of air, aqueous and other vapors, surrounding the earth.