noun
Very common
elements
EHL-ih-muhnts
Elements (noun) means the weather, especially rough conditions like wind, rain, or cold, viewed as something a person is exposed to. Example: “The hikers sheltered from the elements in a small stone hut.”
noun
1
The weather, especially rough conditions like wind, rain, or cold, viewed as something a person is exposed to.
"The hikers sheltered from the elements in a small stone hut."
"Sailors have to face the elements whatever the forecast says."
"Without a coat, he was completely at the mercy of the elements."
2
The basic facts or principles of a subject.
"This book teaches the elements of music, such as rhythm and pitch."
"Learning the elements of grammar will help you write more clearly."
"The course covers the elements of accounting before moving to advanced topics."
How to use elements
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither rough weather, or the basic starting facts of a subject.
Common pairings
brave the elements
exposed to the elements
elements of
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Synonyms
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the weather
harsh weather
the forces of nature
wind and rain
rough conditions
Rhymes for elements
See all rhymes for elements →Frequently asked questions
What does “elements” mean?
The word “elements” means the weather, especially rough conditions like wind, rain, or cold, viewed as something a person is exposed to. In plain terms, either rough weather, or the basic starting facts of a subject.
How do you pronounce “elements”?
“Elements” is pronounced EHL-ih-muhnts (/ˈɛl.ɪ.mənts/ in IPA).
How do you use “elements” in a sentence?
Here is “elements” used in a sentence: “Without a coat, he was completely at the mercy of the elements.”
What part of speech is “elements”?
“Elements” is a noun.
Is “elements” a common word?
“Elements” is a very common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “elements” have?
“Elements” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the weather, especially rough conditions like wind, rain, or cold, viewed as something a person is exposed to.
What does 'exposed to the elements' mean?
It means being out in the open with no shelter from harsh weather such as wind, rain, snow, sun, or cold. The phrase stresses vulnerability — a person, building, or object left unprotected must endure whatever nature throws at it, often suffering wear or discomfort as a result.
What is the difference between 'the elements' and 'the weather'?
'The weather' is a neutral term for any atmospheric conditions, mild or wild. 'The elements' specifically evokes the harsh, forceful side of weather that people must brave or shelter from. You might enjoy fine weather, but you battle the elements — the phrase almost always suggests rough conditions.
What is an example of 'braving the elements'?
Hiking up a mountain in driving rain, walking to work through a snowstorm, fishing on a windswept sea, or camping in freezing cold are all examples of braving the elements. Each involves facing rough weather head-on, without much shelter, and pushing on despite the discomfort it brings.
Why does 'the elements' mean the weather?
The idea goes back to the four classical elements — earth, air, fire, and water — which ancient thinkers believed made up the natural world. Over time the phrase came to stand for the raw forces of nature, and especially the wind, rain, and cold that people must endure outdoors.
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