noun

troposphere

TROP-uh-sfeer

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Troposphere (noun) means the lowest layer of a planet's atmosphere, reaching from its surface up to the tropopause and marked by rising and falling air currents and a sharp drop in temperature with height. Example: “Most weather occurs within the troposphere.”

noun

The lowest layer of a planet's atmosphere, reaching from its surface up to the tropopause and marked by rising and falling air currents and a sharp drop in temperature with height.

"Most weather occurs within the troposphere."

"Aircraft usually cruise near the top of the troposphere."

"Temperature in the troposphere falls steadily the higher you climb."

How to use troposphere

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe troposphere is the layer of air closest to the ground, where weather happens.

When to use it

The term is used in scientific and meteorological contexts.

Memory tip

Keep troposphere and stratosphere apart: the troposphere is the lower layer where weather forms.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

stratosphere →

Common pairings

the upper troposphere within the troposphere troposphere and stratosphere

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “troposphere” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Most weather occurs within the _____.

Etymology

Troposphere was borrowed into English from French troposphere, built from the combining form tropo- joined to -sphere.

Origin: French

Rhymes for troposphere

ere here were mere Pere dere Vere Gere there where Frere Shere

See all rhymes for troposphere →

Frequently asked questions

What is the troposphere?

It is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, stretching from the ground up to the tropopause.

Why does the troposphere matter for weather?

Its rising and falling air currents and changing temperatures are what drive weather on Earth's surface.

Does temperature rise or fall in the troposphere?

Temperature falls steadily as altitude increases through the troposphere.

What is the meaning of troposphere?

"troposphere" (noun) means the lowest layer of a planet's atmosphere, reaching from its surface up to the tropopause and marked by rising and falling air currents and a sharp drop in temperature with height.