weather
weather
UK[ˈweðə(r)]US[ˈweðər]
n
The condition of the atmosphere at a particular place and time, such as the temperature, and if there is wind, rain, sun, etc.
v
To change physically or chemically because of the effects of the sun, wind, rain, or other weather conditions over a long period.
v
To come safely through a difficult period or experience.
Etymology
The word 'weather' originates from the Old English weder, which meant "air, sky, breeze, storm, or weather." This term is of Proto-Germanic descent, related to Dutch weer and German Wetter. The Proto-Germanic root wedrą is thought to be connected to the Proto-Indo-European root we-dhro-, meaning "weather" or "storm," which itself is derived from the root h₂weh₁-, "to blow." This etymological journey from a concept of blowing wind and stormy air to the generalized modern meaning encompassing all atmospheric conditions illustrates a logical semantic broadening. The verb senses, involving enduring exposure to the elements or surviving a crisis, developed naturally from the noun, metaphorically extending the idea of withstanding atmospheric forces.
Analysis
The word is a simplex form derived from Old English weder, of Germanic origin. It is not productively segmentable into distinct morphemes in modern English.
Examples
The weather forecast predicts rain for the entire weekend.
The old wooden fence had weathered to a soft grey.
The company managed to weather the economic recession.