adjective
autumnal
aw-TUM-nuhl
Autumnal (adjective) means relating to or characteristic of autumn. Example: “There was an autumnal chill in the air by early October.”
adjective
1
Relating to or characteristic of autumn.
"There was an autumnal chill in the air by early October."
"The park looks beautiful once the autumnal mists roll in."
"She loves autumnal weather more than the heat of summer."
2
Describing colours such as orange, brown and gold that are associated with autumn.
"She decorated the table with autumnal reds and golds."
"The shop's new collection is full of autumnal tones."
"He painted the hillside in warm, autumnal shades."
How to use autumnal
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIt describes anything that feels or looks like autumn, from the weather to a colour palette.
When to use it
It is a standard descriptive word, equally at home in everyday speech and more literary writing.
Memory tip
Remember it by the pattern autumn plus -al, the same way spring becomes vernal and summer becomes summery.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
autumnal colours
autumnal weather
autumnal chill
autumnal tones
autumnal mist
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Fill the gap
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There was an _____ chill in the air by early October.
Etymology
Borrowed from the Latin word autumnalis. It can also be understood simply as the noun autumn with the adjective ending -al attached.
Synonyms
View more →
fallish
fall-like
Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does autumnal mean?
It means relating to or typical of autumn, such as the season's weather, mood or colours.
Is autumnal only used for weather?
No, it is also used for colours, describing warm shades like orange, brown and gold that bring autumn to mind.
What is the opposite of autumnal?
The word vernal, meaning relating to spring, is generally treated as its opposite.
What is the meaning of autumnal?
"autumnal" (adjective) means relating to or characteristic of autumn.
