The long-term weather patterns and atmospheric conditions of particular regions. The prevailing environmental conditions or general atmosphere of a place or situation.
From Greek klima meaning 'slope' or 'inclination,' referring to the angle of the sun's rays at different latitudes. The word entered English via Latin clima and originally related to geographical zones based on solar angles.
The ancient Greeks understood that Earth's 'climate zones' were determined by the planet's spherical shape and the sun's angle—a remarkably sophisticated concept for their time. Today, we recognize that local climates are incredibly complex systems influenced by ocean currents, elevation, vegetation, and human activity.
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