Anticyclone

/ˈæntaɪˌsaɪkloʊn/ noun

Definition

A large-scale atmospheric circulation system characterized by high pressure at its center, with air flowing outward and clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere. Anticyclones typically bring clear skies, calm weather, and stable atmospheric conditions.

Etymology

From Greek 'anti' meaning 'opposite' and 'cyclone' (from Greek 'kyklon' meaning 'moving in a circle'). The term was coined in the 1860s when meteorologists recognized this weather pattern as the opposite of cyclonic systems.

Kelly Says

Anticyclones are like atmospheric mountains of dense air that create nature's most beautiful weather! The sinking air in these high-pressure systems compresses and warms, evaporating clouds away and giving us those crystal-clear blue skies perfect for spotting migrating birds.

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