climate-change
UK[ˈklaɪmət ˌtʃeɪndʒ]US[ˈklaɪmət ˌtʃeɪndʒ]
n
A long-term change in the Earth's climate, especially a change due to an increase in the average atmospheric temperature.
n
The large-scale and long-term alteration of global weather patterns, attributed largely to human activity that increases levels of greenhouse gases.
Morpheme Breakdown
climate
change
climate
region, inclination
change
alteration
Etymology
The compound term "climate-change" is a modern formation that logically combines two ancient concepts to describe a contemporary global phenomenon. "Climate" originates from the Greek klima, meaning 'inclination' or 'slope,' specifically referring to the slope of the Earth from equator to pole, which determines a region's weather patterns. "Change" derives from the Latin cambiare, meaning 'to exchange or swap,' a concept rooted in Celtic trade practices. When fused, the term's literal meaning—'a shift or alteration in the inclined zones of the Earth'—precisely captures the scientific observation of long-term transformations in global or regional climate patterns, moving from a static geographical descriptor to a dynamic process of environmental transformation.
Analysis
Structure: climate (region, inclination) + change (alteration)
- climate: From Latin clima (region, zone, slope of the Earth), from Greek klima (inclination, latitude, region). Functions as the base noun denoting a prevailing condition or region.
- change: From Old French changier, from Late Latin cambiare (to exchange, barter), of Celtic origin. Functions as the second noun/verb element denoting the process of alteration.
Examples
Scientists warn that climate change is causing more frequent and severe weather events.
International agreements aim to mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing carbon emissions.
Public awareness about the causes of climate change has grown significantly in recent decades.